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JOSEPH GWILT. 


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G. WOODFALL, ANGEL count, SKINNER STREET, LONDON. 





























Ht THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


OF 


“MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO) 


IN TEN BOOKS. 


TRANSLATED FROM THE LATIN 


BY 


JOSEPH - GWILT, 


FELLOW OF THE SOCIETY OF ANTIQUARIES OF LONDON. 


LONDON: 
PRIESTLEY AND WEALE. 


MDCCCXXVI. 
1926 








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LIBRARY | ; 
pole a ZOE GS 
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO 














CONTENTS. 


DRBDICKTION cise pet an eae sel ee ae adel es awe vii 
Tiiet of Subaprihers.: cee) cist a se oe og a a oe IX 
MER RI cho oe a Sind ae on Wee a Tarheel Lae We he) es eerie ged TOPO 
Mato’ of Vitruvius sf ics ered aces ceed cen ese ae ek Oe SR VIL 
List of the several Editions and Versions of Vitruvius . . . xxi 
List of the Chapters contained in the Work . . . . . . XXxV 
Description of the Head-Pieces. . . . . . + +--+ - - xi 
The Architecture of Vitruvius, BookI. . ......- 1 
role Panes ees ers ead 
BOOMER. ccs e f5 
rate ee eee eee). a Pe Re ree ae mee 
SE aN sste coe Rotten Pat Bony Ponte ODE TN ois Pie tate oh od ain ae oad 
Se MOGR ME svercet ror es) Nerser AOL 
ebBeoksVilo: 3203 3.27522, 191 
vepooke VENT 8.3: lie 22) 237, 
BOOK L Risse. fervor es ws oe ODO 
Fr senile oy a, Wa Seo GRE SLY cee eae tyes oe 
Plates, and Explanations of them. . . . ... +. + 347 
BNOBY ei 2rsoe 4 Bech a nee ee Oy ea en eo OS 


ey 





TO THE KING. 


SIRE, 


Tue Writings of Marcus Virrvu- 
vius Pouuxio have long been distinguished 
by the especial patronage of Sovereigns. 
That of GEorGE THE FourTH is now added 
to those of Augustus, the Medici, Francis 
the First, and Lewis the Fourteenth. 


It would be presumptuous in me to 
dwell on the singular connexion between 
the successful cultivation of the Arts and: 
the appearance of the different Editions of 
Vitruvius; but when we read the memo- 
rable words of Augustus, his first Patron, 


“* Urbem marmoream se relinquere, quam 


vill 
lateritiam accepisset,” we are so forcibly re- 
minded of the taste and munificence of our 
present Sovereign, that we look forward 
with the highest expectations to the future, 


while we reflect with gratitude on the 
past. 


With a deep sense of the obligation 
your Masxsry has conferred, by allowing 
me to present this to your notice, and the 
most sincere prayer, that, in a long conti- 
nuance of your happy reign, the Nation 
may receive the fulfilment of its wishes, I 
have the honour to declare myself, with 


every respect, ° 


YOUR MAJESTY’S 
MOST DUTIFUL AND FAITHFUL 


SUBJECT AND SERVANT, 


JOSEPH GWILT. 


ix 


LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS. 


ONLY TWENTY-FIVE LARGE PAPER COPIES HAVE BEEN PRINTED. 


A. 


Asrauam, Robert, Esq. 
_Ackermann, Mr. 

Angell, Samuel, Esq. 

Arch, Messrs. 

Arch, Messrs. (large paper). 
Atkinson, Mr. Charles. 


BaiLery, George, Esq. 

Baker, H. Esq. 

Barclay, Charles, Esq. (large paper). 

Barry, Charles, Esq. 

Basevi, George, Esq. F.S.A. 

Beilby, Knott and Beilby, Messrs. Birmingham. 
Bellamy, Mr. Thomas. 

Bent and Co., Messrs., Manchester. 

Bishop, J. M. Esq. 

Bohn, Mr. (2 Copies). 

Bohn, Mr. (large paper). 

Bradbury, Thomas, Esq. ' 
Brandram, Thomas, Esq. Lee Grove, Kent (large paper). 
Britton, John, Esq. F.S.A. 

Britton, John, Esq. F.S.A. (large paper). 
Brocas, Barnard, Esq. Wakefield Park, Reading. 
Brown and Co., Messrs. 

Bull, Simeon Thomas, Esq. 

Burn, J. Ilderton, Esq. 

Burn, Mr. (2 Copies). 

Burton, James, Esq. 

Busby, C. A. Esq. Brighton. 


x 


C. 


CARPENTER and Son, Messrs. 

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*Carter, Mr. B. 

Chantrey, F. L. Esq. LL.D. R.A. F.R. and AS. &c. (large paper): 
Cheffins, Mr. G. A. : 

Clarke, Mr. William (large paper). 

Clarke, Isaac, Esq. 

‘Clelland Mc. Mr. J. 

Clisby, Mr. W. Brighton. 

Cockslaw, Mr. Leicester. 

Collins, Mr. W. Richmond, Surrey. 

Cotton, Henry C. Esq. 

Cotton, William, Esq. Priory, Leatherhead. 
Cresy, Edward, Esq. F.S.A. 

Cuming, Mr. Samuel, Totnes. 


D: 
Dauttaway, Rev. James, M.B. F.S.A. 
Davies, John, Esq. 
Davis, Edward, Esq. 
Davison, Mr. Henry. 
Davy, Mr. H. Southwold, Suffolk. 
Donaldson, Thomas L. Esq. 
Duff, Thomas J. Esq. Belfast. 


E. 
Epwarps, F. Esq. 
Elmes, James, Esq. M.R.I.A. 
Evans, Thomas, Esq. 


Fs 


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Finlayson, Thomas, Esq. Reading. 
Fisher, Mr. F. Salisbury. 

Foster, John, Jun. Esq. F.S.A. Liverpool. 


Xi 


Garviner, John, Esq. 

Garling, H. Esq. 

Goldicutt, John, Esq. 

Goldring, George, Esq. 

Good, Joseph H. Esq. 

Grapel, Mr. Liverpool (2 Copies). 

Gregory, Lieut. Royal Engineers, Chatham. 

Green, John, Esq. Newcastle-upon-Tyne. 

Green, Mr. F. G. 

Grenock, Right Hon. Lord, Hythe, Kent. 

Groves, Mr. F. H. 

Guilford, The Right Hon. the Earl of, LL.D. F.R. & A.S. 
(large paper). 

Gwilt, Charles Perkins, Esq. (large paper). 

Gwilt, George, Esq. F.S.A. 

Gwilt, John Sebastian, Esq. 

Gwyn, L. Esq. 


Jeb 


Hauwerr, Mr. J. 

Hamilton, Thomas, Esq. Edinburgh. 
Hardwick, Thomas, Esq. F.S.A. 
Harrison, Henry, Esq. 

Hayward, Mr. 

Hering, Mr. Frederic. 

Hernaman and Robinson, Messrs. Leeds. 
Hill and Son, Messrs. Edinburgh (2 Copies). 
Hollingsworth, R. M. Esq. 

Hollis, Charles, Esq. 

Hutchinson, H. Esq. Birmingham. 


1 ae 


Jackson, Mr. B., Leeds. 


Xil 


Jalland, Mr. Robert. 

T’Anson, Edward, Esq. 

Ingleman, Mr. Richard, Southwell, Notts. 
Inman, W.S. Esq. 

Johnson, Esq. Lichfield. 

Jones, Martin, Esq. 

Jones, Michael, Esq. F\S.A. 

Judge, Mr. 

Jupp, William, Esq. 





K. 


Kay, Joseph, Esq. Greenwich Hospital. 
Kendall, H. E. Esq. 

Keys, H. L. Esq. 

King and Ridings, Messrs. Cork. 
Kinnard, William, Esq. 

Knight, Mr. William. 

Knyvett, Rev. C. W. M.A. 


Lis 


Larne, David, Esq. F.S.A. 
Lewis, Mr. 
Lockie, John, Esq. 


M. 


Maruews, Charles, Esq. Junior. 
Markland, J. H. Esq. F.R.S. 

Miekelam, R. Esq. 

Moneypenny, George, Esq. (large paper). 
Montague, William, Esq. 

Moore, George, Esq. F.S.A. 

Murphy, John Andrew, Esq. 


N. 
NarriENn, John, Esq. Military College, Sandhurst. 


xii 


Newman, John, Esq. 
Nicholl, John, Esq. Jun. 


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PapWonTH, J. B. Esq. 

Parkinson, James T. Esq. 

Parsons, William, Esq. Leicester. 

Perkins, Frederic, Esq. Lee, Kent (large paper). 
Porden, Charles F. Esq. 

Preston, Rev. George, M.A. 

Pugin, A. Esq. 

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R. 


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Rivington and Cochran, Messrs. 

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Robinson, P. F. Esq. 

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Scott, George, Esq. Ravenscourt Park, Hammersmith. 
Smirke, Robert, Esq. R.A. F.S.A. 

Smith, C. J. Esq. Warwick (large paper). 
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X1V 


T. 


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Vv; 


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WW. 


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- Wheler, John, Esq. (large paper). 
Wilkins, William, Esq. A.M. F.S.A. 
Wilson, Sir Thomas Maryon, Bart. Charlton, Kent. 
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Youne, James, Esq. 


PREFACE. 


Tue following Translation was commenced many 
years since, under a conviction of the benefit I 
should derive from it in my architectural studies; 
but at the time of undertaking it, its publication 
was not contemplated. During the progress of my 
labours I found it useful to refer to the different 
versions of the author, and more especially to that 
of Newton, the only Englishman who has hitherto 
translated and published the whole of the text of 
Vitruvius. That translation I found so unsatis- 
factory and incorrect, that my resolution was early 
formed of making an endeavour, at some period, 
to give the English student, not only a more con- 
venient volume for reference, but, as I presume to 
think, a truer interpretation of the text of the 
author. Whether I have succeeded, must be sub- 
mitted to the Reader’s judgment. I have, perhaps, 
adhered more closely to the text than the idiom 
of our language may allow, but I trust that this will 
be far from a serious charge against me. The edi- 
tions chiefly used have been those of Philander, 
Elzevir, the Bipont, and that of Schneider, which is 
a most valuable book: not, however, without fre- 


XVi 


quent recurrence to the translations of Barbaro and 
Perrault, and the excellent one of Galiani. The 
plates subjoined to the work are not so numerous 
as might have been desired. My reason for limiting 
them to their present number has been more from 
a desire to avoid conjectural representations than 
to save trouble or expense in the publication. The 
following version is without note or comment, but 
I am in hopes that it may, at a future period, lead 
to a further consideration of the precepts and doc- 
trines of the only author, among the antients, on 
the art of which I am an humble professor. 


J. G, 


LIFE OF VITRUVIUS. 


found in his own Treatise. Among the antient 


} 
1 


\ 


a 
\ 


AX 


= MA —— 


authors he is merely mentioned by Pliny, as_one___! 


of those writers from whom he compiled; and 
by Frontinus, in his Treatise on Aqueducts, as 
the first who introduced the Quinarian measure. 
Though practising in Rome, and in the service of 
the emperors, living in Rome, and writing the sub- 
joined work in that city, there appears nothing that 
can lead us to assert that he was a native of the 
place. Maffei, a Veronese, strove to prove the au- 
thor his countryman, and in corroboration adduced 
an inscription which existed on a triumphal arch 
in Verona as hereunder ; 


L. VITRUVIUS L. L. CERDO 
ARCHITECTUS. 


Had this arch, however, been built by our Author, it 

would not prove him a native of the city, not look- 

ing to the difference in the agnomen, a circum- 

stance which Alciati attempted to reconcile, by 

supposing that of Pollio to be a corruption of Pel- 

lio, and that then it would be synonymous with 
c 


XVill 


Cerdo, both the one and the other signifying a cur- 
rier. Philander, however, completely refuted this 
conjecture, if indeed refutation could have been 
necessary, for the arch itself contained a violation 
of a rule insisted on by Vitruvius, that dentils 
should not occur under mutuli. 

From the fragments of inscriptions relative to 
the Vitruvia family, found in the neighbourhood of 
Formie (the present Mola di Gaeta), it has been 
presumed, without a great stretch of probability, 
that it was .in this territory Vitruvius was born. 
The age in which he lived was doubtless between 
the time of the death of Julius Ceesar and the bat- 
tle of Actium, though some 7e have | assigned it to the 
reign of Titus. But his omission of the mention of 
a great number of magnificent buildings, erected OY 
after the time of Augustus, and his especial men-  / — 
tion of the theatre of Pompey as the only one of | 
stone, sufficiently prove that such a conjecture is not a 
warranted by circumstances. The dedication, more-_ 
over, points to Augustus as the patron of Vitruvius: _ 
and the incident of C. Julius, the son of Masanissa, — 
who was in the army of Julius Caesar, having lodged 
with him, as related in the third chapter of his 
eighth book, seems clearly to indicate the time of 
his existence. 

It is likely that the following treatise was compos- 
ed when he was advanced in life, and that it was pre- 
sented to his patron after he had assumed the title 


XIX 


of Augustus, that is, twenty-five years before the 
Christian sera, inasmuch as he speaks of a temple 
erected to Augustus, in his Basilica at Fano. 

He was, as may be collected from his writings, 
by no means a successful professor, though well 
born, and well educated, and certainly, notwith-' 
standing the common sophisms of the age which 
appear in his work, a man of no ordinary talent. 
He was no less a military than a civil architect, as 
may be gathered from the introduction to his first 
book, as well as from the rules, now incompre- 
hensible, but doubtless in his time ‘sufficiently 
clear, laid down in the tenth book, respecting 
military engines. From the introduction to the 
third book we learn, that he was of small stature, 
and lived to some age. That he should have met 
with opposition from his brethren is quite conso- 
nant with later experience, for the rabble of igno- 
rant builders, and artisans, and draftsmen, who in 
the present day call themselves architects, and meet 
with considerable patronage, are of the same class 
as those that flourished subsequently to the time of 
our author, even in the time of Michael Angelo da 
_ Buonaroti. ; 





LIST OF THE SEVERAL EDITIONS AND 


1496. 


VERSIONS OF VITRUVIUS. 


.—* Editio princeps.”—Without year, place, or printer's name. 
Printed at Rome, by George Herolt, under the superintend- 
ence of Sulpitius, in or about 1486. It begins without title 
as follows :—‘‘ 10. sULPITIUS LECTORI sALUTEM. Cum di- 
vinum opus Victruvii: non modo studiosis: sed reliquis ho- 
minibus, &c.”—At the end of the last book of Vitruvius are 
the following verses : 


Lector habes tandem veneranda volumina docti 
Victruvii: quorum copia rara fuit. 

Heec lege : nam disces : nova: magna : recondita: pulchra : 
Et que sint in re seepe futura tua. 

Emendata vides: sed peccat litera siqua 
Corrige: nemo satis lynceus esse potest. 


To the Vitruvius is subjoined,—* Sexti Julii Frontini viri con- 
sularis : de aquis que in urbem influunt: libellus mirabilis." — 
The pages are of thirty-four lines, and the Vitruvius contains 
ninety-four fols. including the letter of Sulpitius, &. The 
Frontinus contains only sixteen fols. Gaignat Catalogue 54 
francs. La Valiere ditto 130 francs. Polenus says there are 
but few errors in this edition. Harwood says it is a very 
scarce book. 

. This Edition begins thus.—‘ Hoc in volumine hac opera 
continentur. L. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri de- 
cem. Sexti Julii Frontini de Aquzductibus Liber unus. 
Angeli Politiani Opusculum: quod Panepistemon inscribi- 
tur. Angeli Politiani in priora Analytica preelectio, cui ti- 
tulus est Lamia.”—At the end of the Vitruvius :—“ Florentiz 
impressum anno a natali Christiano m.cccc.Lxxxxvt.”—fol. 


1497. 


XXii 


—According to Fabricius, the orthography of this edition is 
more correct than the preceding one of Sulpitius; in other 
respects it is very like it. It is quite as scarce as the editio 
princeps. 

This Volume begins, —‘* Hoc in Volumine continentur : Cleo- 
nidze Harmonicum Introductorium interprete Georgio Valla 
Placentino. L. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri De- 
cem. Sexti Julii Frontini de Aqueeductibus Liber unus. 
Angeli Politiani Opusculum: quod Panepistemon inscribitur. 
Angeli Politiani in priora Analytica pralectio, cui titulus est 
Lamia.”—At the end of the Vitruvius,—‘“ Impressum Vene- 
tiis, per Simonem Papiensem dictum Bivilaquam: Anno 
M.CCCC.LXXxxviI. die tertio Augusti."—fol. With a few 
slight variations in the text, this is little more than a reprint 
of the preceding Florence Edition, as regards Vitruvius. 
The Cleonidas is an addition to it. The name of the Editor 
does not appear; he has divided the chapters of the first 
book differently from those of the two former editions. This 
book, though not common, does not fetch a large price. 


1511.—* M. Vitruvius per Iocundum solito castigatior factus, cum 


figuris et tabula, ut iam legi et intelligi possit.”—At the end, 
—‘ Impressum Venetiis ac magis quam unquam aliquo alio 
tempore emendatum: sumptu miraque diligentia Ioannis de 
Tridino alias Tacuino. Anno Domini M.p.x1. die xx1. 
Maii. Regnante inclito Duce Leonardo Lauredano.”—fol. 
—With many wood blocks. This was the first edition 
illustrated with Figures. Jocundus altered the text of the 
two former editions in many places. Polenus thinks he car- 
ried his emendations further than he was justified in doing ; 
but he gives the preference to this over the former editions. 


1513.—* Vitruvius iterum et Frontinus a Iocundo revisi repurgatique 


quantum ex collatione licuit."—At the end:—‘‘ Hoc opus 
precipua diligentia castigatum, et cura summa excusum est 
Florentiz: sumptibus Philippi de Giunta Florentini, anno Do- 
mini M.D. x11. mense Octobri.”—Small octavo.—The figures 
in this edition are the same as the preceding, but consider- 


XXiii 


ably reduced and more imperfectly cut. It is extremely 
scarce, and produced an enormous price (eleven guineas) at an 
auction in this country a few years since. 

1522.—“ M. Vitruvii de Architectura Libri decem nuper maxima di- 
ligentiacastigati, atque excusi, additis Julii Frontini de Aque- 
ductibus libris propter materiz affinitatem.”—At the end :— 
‘* Impressum Florentiz per heredes Philippi Iunte Anno 
Domini, mpxxur. sexto Kal. Novembris.”—Small octavo. 
This is a reprint of the preceding edition with the same blocks 
for the figures. 

1523.—“ M. Vitruvii de Architectura Libri decem, summa diligentia 
recogniti, atque excusi. Cum nonnullis figuris sub hoc signo * 
positis, numquam antea impressis. Additis Iulii Frontini de 
Aquzeductibus libris, propter materiz affinitatem. 1523.”— 
Small octavo. Without place or printer’s name. This is a 
counterfeit of the Giunta edition. And though Polenus 
conjectures it was printed at Florence, there is little doubt 
that it was the work of Will. Huyon of Lyons. The figures 
added with the mark * attached to them, are reduced from 
those of the first Italian version of the author by Cesar 
Ceesarianus 1521, which is hereinafter noticed. 

1543.—* M. Vitruvii, viri sue professionis peritissimi, de Archi- 
tectura Libri Decem, ad Augustum Czesarem accuratiss. con- 
scripti: et nunc primum in Germania qua potuit diligentia 
excusi, atque hinc inde Schematibus non iniucundis exornati. 
Adiecimus etiam propter argumenti conformitatem, Sexti 
Tulii Frontini de Aqueeductibus urbis Rome libellum. Item 
ex libro Nicolai Cusani Card. de Staticis experimentis Frag- 
mentum. Cum Indice copiosissimo, et dispositione longe 
meliori, quam antea.”"— At the end:—‘“ Argentorati. In offi- 
cina Knoblochiana per Georgium Macheropieum. Anno 
1543.”—Quarto. The text is nearly the same as that of Jo- 
cundus. ‘The figures of the wood-blocks are partly borrowed 
from the Giunta edition, and partly from the translation of 
Ceesarianus. 

1550.—“ M. Vitruvii Pollionis, viri sux professionis peritissimi, de 


XXiV 


Architectura Libri x. ad Augustum Cssarem accuratissime 
conscripti, et locis quam plurimis hac editione emendati. Ad- 
iunctis nunc primum Gulielmi Philandri Castilionii Galli, 
Civis Rom. Castigationibus atque Annotationibus in eosdem 
longe doctissimis ad Franciscum Valesium Galliarum Regem. 
Una cum Lib. IT. Sex. Iulii Frontini de Aqueeductibus urbis 
Rome, et Nicolai. Cusani Dialogo de Staticis experimentis. 
Cum Greco pariter et Latino indice, dispositione copiaque 
elaboratissimo.”—At the end:—‘‘ Argentorati, ex officina 
Knoblochiana, per Georgium Machaeropieum, Mense Au- 
gusto, Anno M.p.L.”—Quarto. The text is the same as that 
of the 1543 edition. The notes of Philander which are 
added, were first published in 1544 at Rome in 8vo, but with.. 
out the text of Vitruvius. 

1552.—* M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri decem ad Cx- 
sarem Augustum omnibus omnium editionibus longe emenda- 
tiores, collatis veteribus exemplis. Accesserunt Gulielmi 
Philandri Castilionii, civis Rom. Annotationes castigatiores, 
et plus tertia parte locupletiores. Adiecta est Epitome in 
omnes Georgii Agricole de mensuris et ponderibus Libros, 
eodem autore. Cum Greco pariter et Latino indice locu- 
pletissimo. Lugduni. Apud Ioan. Tornesium, 1552.”— 
Quarto. Philander himself superintended this edition, chiefly 
following the Giunta text, which he collated with several 
MSS. The wood blocks are better than in any preceding 
edition. 

1567.—* M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri decem, cum 
commentariis Danielis Barbari, electi Patriarcha Aquilei- 
ensis : multis adificiorum, horologiorum, et Machinarum de- 
scriptionibus, et figuris, una cum indicibus copiosis, auctis et 
illustratis. Venetiis. Apud Franciscum Fransciscium Se- 
nensem, et Ioan. Crugher Germanum, 1567.”—Folio. Bar- 
baro in this seems to have mostly followed Philander’s edition 
of 1552. 

1586.—“ M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri decem, ad Cee- 
sarem Augustum, omnibus omnium editionibus longe emen- 


XXV 


datiores, collatis veteribus exemplis. Accesserunt Gulielmi 
Philandri Castilionii, Civis Rom. Annotationes castigatiores, 
et plus tertia parte locupletiores. Adiecta est Epitome in 
omnes Georgii Agricola de mensuris et ponderibus libros 
eodem auctore. Cum Greco pariter et Latino Indice locu- 
pletissimo, m.p.Lxxxvi. Apud Ioan. Tornaesium, typogr. 
Reg. Lugd.”—Quarto. Harwood says that the Editor of this 
edition was Jo. Tornesius junior, and that it is more correct, 
though less elegant than that produced by the father in 1552. 


1649.—“ M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri decem, cum 


1758. 


notis, castigationibus, et observationibus Gulielmi Philandri 
integris ; Danielis Barbari excerptis, et Claudii Salmasii pas- 
sim insertis. Preemittuntur Elementa Architecture collecta 
ab illustri Viro Henrico Wottono Equite Anglo. Accedunt 
Lexicon Vitruvianum Bernardini Baldi Urbinatis Guastell 
Abbatis ; et eiusdem scamilli impares Vitruviani. De Pic- 
tura Libri tres absolutissimi Leonis Baptistee de Albertis. 
De Sculptura excerpta maxime animadvertenda ex Dialogo 
Pomponii Gaurici Neapolit. Ludovici Demontiosii Com- 
mentarius de Sculptura et Pictura. Cum variis Indicibus 
copiosissimis. Omnia in unum collecta, digesta, et illustrata 


‘a Toanne de Laet Antverpiano. Amstelodami. .Apud 


Lud. Elzevirium. Anno 1649."—Folio. This has been 
usually considered the best edition of the Author: it was 
certainly at that period the most splendid edition, to which 
the Elzevir type not a little contributed. De Laet pro- 
fesses to follow the text of Philander’s edition; but neither 
was this accurately done, nor were the notes of Philander, nor 
the Lexicon of Baldus given entire, as the title would import. 
The most valuable novelty in this edition is the Commentary 
of Meibomius on those Chapters relating to musical notation. 
An Edition by the Marchese Berardo Galiani. Folio. 
Naples. This was accompanied by an Italian Version, which 
will be hereafter noticed among the Italian Editions. Har- 
wood says this is a “ a fair and valuable Edition.” Not no- 
ticed by Schneider. 


d 


XXVI 


1800.— M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri decem. Ope 
Codicis Guelferbytani, editionis principis, ceterorumque sub- 
sidiorum recensuit, et Glossario, in quo vocabula artis propria 
Germ. Ital. Gall. et Angl. explicantur, illustravit Augustus 
Rode Dessaviensis. Berolini, sumtibus Aug. Mylii. 1800.”— 
Two thin volumes Quarto. The plates to this Edition were 
published in Folio in the ensuing year to the number of 
twenty. The text of this Edition is of little value. The 
plates though ill executed and the glossary in five languages, 
are useful to the Architectural student. It has no notes ap- 
pended. 

1807.—“ M. Vitruvii Pollionis de Architectura Libri Decem ad 
Optimas Editiones collati. Praemittitur Notitia literaria Stu- 
diis Societatis Bipontinae. Accedit Anonymi scriptoris ve- 
teris Architecture compendium cum indicibus. Argentorati 
Ex Typographia Societatis mpcccv11.”—Octavo. 

1807.—“ Marci Vitruvii Pollionis De Architectura Libri Decem. 
Ex fide librorum scriptorum recensuit, emendavit, suisque et 
virorum doctorum Annotationibus illustravit Io. Gottlob 
Schneider, Saxo. Lipsiz, sumtibus et Litteris G. J. Goschen. 
Anno mvcccvit.”—3 Vols. Imper. Octavo. This Edition, 
the second and third volumes of which are devoted to com- 
mentaries on the text, is the best edition of the Author which 
has appeared. It is much to be regretted that it was pub- 
lished without plates; with the addition of them it would 
have been a perfect book. 


SPANISH VERSIONS. 


1602.— Los diez libros de Arquitectura de Marco Vitruvio Pollion, 
traducidos del Latin por Michatl de Urrea. Alcala de He- 
narez. 1602.”—Folio. 

1787.— Los diez libros de Architectura de M. Vitruvio Pollion, 
traducidos del Latin y commentados por Don Joseph Ortiz 


y Sanz. Presbitero. Madrid. 1787.”—Large Folio, with 
plates. 


XXVIi 


. 


FRENCH VERSIONS. 


1547.—‘ Architecture, ou Art de bien bastir de Mare Vitruve Pol- 


1572. 


1618. 


lion, autheur Romain antique ; mis de Latin en Frangois par 
Jan Martin, secretaire de Monseign. le Cardinal de Lenon- 
court. Pour le Roy trés Chrestien Henry II. A Paris. 
Pour la veuve et heritiers de Jan. Barbe. 1547.”—Folio. 
This was the first French Version of Vitruvius. 

A Reprint of the preceding by Jerome de Marnef et Guil. 
Cavellat. Fol. Paris. 

The Third French Version. Printed in Quarto at Geneva 
from the two preceding Editions by Jean de Tournes. 


1673.—“ Les dix Livres d’Architecture de Vitruve, corrigez et tra- 


duits nouvellement en Francois, avec des Notes et des Figures. 
A Paris, chez Jean Bapt. Coignard. 1673.”—Large Folio. 
This was a version worthy of Perrault the Translator. 
Though in many parts it is impossible to agree with him in 
his Interpretation of the Text, yet it is a most valuable work. 
The figures are numerous and well executed on copper. 


1684,—“‘ Les dix Livres d’ Architecture de Vitruve corrigez et traduits 


nouvellement en Frangois, avec des Notes et des Figures. 
Seconde edition revue, corrigée, et augmentée. Par M. 
Perrault de Academie royale des Sciences, Docteur en 
Medecine de la Faculté de Paris. A Paris, chez Jean Bapt. 
Coignard, Imprimeur ordinaire du Roy, rue St. Jaques, a la 
Bible d'or. 1684.”—Large Folio. This is, notwithstanding 
the wear of the plates, the best of Perrault’s Editions ; and 


‘copies of it, in which Seb. Le Clerc’s plate representing the 


machinery for raising the two large stones of the Pediment 
of the Louvre appears, are valuable. 


1816.—* L’ Architecture de Vitruve traduite en Francois, avec des 


remarques par le Bioul. Bruxelles 1816.”—Quarto, with 
plates. 


GERMAN VERSIONS. 


1548.—* Vitruvius Teusch. Alles mit schoenen kiinstlichen Figuren 


und Antiquiteten, und Sonderlichen Commentarien zu meh- 


XXViil 


rerem Bericht und besserem Verstand gezieret und erkleeret. 
Durch D. Gualtherum H. Rivium. Medic. & Mathem. 
Vormals in teutsche sprach zu transferiren noch von nie- 
mand sonst understanden, sondern fiir unmiiglichen geachtet 
worden. Zu Niirnberg triickts Johan Petreius.”—Folio. 
With plates on wooden blocks cut by Erard Scheen. 


1575. A repetition of the preceding. Basil. Folio. 


1614. 


Another repetition with this title :—‘ Vitruvius. Des aller- 
namhafftigsten unnd Hocherfahrnesten, Roemischen Archi- 
tecti, unnd Kunstreichen Werck oder Bawmeisters, Marci 
Vitruvij Pollionis, zehen Biicher von der Architectur und 
kiinstlichem Bawen. Ein Schliissel und eynleitung aller Ma- 
thematischen unnd Mechanischen Kunst, Scharfsinniger 
fleissiger nachtrachtung oder Speculation kiinstlicher Wercke 
&c. Erstmals verteutscht, unnd in Truck verordnet durch 
D. Gualterum H. Rivium. Vormals in Teutsche Sprach zu 
transferiren, noch von niemand sonst understanden, sonder 
fur unmiuglich geachtet worden. Jetzt aber an vilen Orten 
verbessert. Getruckt zu Basel. Durch Sebastian Henricpetri, 
im Jar nach der Geburt Christi m.pc.x1v.”—Folio. 


1796.—“< Des Marcus Vitruvius Pollio Baukunst. Aus der Roemis- 


chen Urschrift tibersetzt von August Rode. Zwey Thaile. 
Leipzig.”—Quarto. In the first volume is a life of Vitru- 


vius. This edition contains many illustrations of the 
Author. 


ENGLISH. 


1771. and 1791.— The Architecture of Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, 


translated from the original Latin by W. Newton, Architect, 
London, Dodsley.”—Large Folio. The first volume was 
published in 1771, and the second in 1791, with many plates. 
This Edition exhibits such a mixture of ignorance of the lan- 
guage of the original in the translation of the text, with so 
much intelligence in some of the notes, that it is difficult to 
believe they aré from the same hand. 


XXix 


Latterly has appeared a translation of the third, fourth, 
fifth, and sixth books of Vitruvius, by W. Wilkins, A.M. 
F.S.A. The text of.these, however, is not entire, and the 
introduction to each of them is omitted altogether.—So that 
hitherto the only entire English version is that by Newton 
above mentioned. 


ITALIAN. 


1521.—* Di Lucio Vitruvio Pollione de Architectura Libri Dece 
traducti de Latino in Vulgare affigurati: Commentati: et con 
mirando ordine Insigniti: per il quale facilmente potrai 
trovare la multitudine de li abstrusi et reconditi Vocabuli a li 
soi loci et in epsa tabula con summo studio expositi et enu- 
cleati ad Immensa utilitate de ciascuno Studioso et benivolo 
di epsa opera. Cum Gratia et Privilegio..—At the end, 
—** Qui finisce L’opera preeclara de Lucio Vitruvio Pollione 
de Architectura traducta de latino in vulgare: Historiata 
e Commentata a le spese e Instantia del Magnifico D. Au- 
gustino Gallo Citadino Comense e Regio Referendario in 
epsa Citate: e del nobile D. Aluisio da Pirovano Patricio 
Milanese: Emendata e Castigata cum summo studio e dili- 
gentia excepto alchune poche cosse quale sono poste nella 
infrascripta tabula de li Errori li quali non se hano possuto 
fugire per langustia dil tempo,”—&c.—‘t E Impressa nel 
amecena et delectevole Citate de Como per Magistro Gotardo 

’ da Ponte Citadino Milanese; ne 1 anno del nro Signore 
Jesu Christo M.p.xx1. xv mensis Julii. Regnante il Chris- 
tianissimo Re de Franza Francisco Duca di Milano,”—&c.— 
‘* Laus Deo.”—Large Folio. This book, which is exceedingly 
rare, is the earliest version of Vitruvius, and was translated 
with the assistance of Benedict Jovius, by Caesar Ceesarianus, 
who was one of the architects of the Cathedral of Milan, circa 
1491. As late as the year 1810 it was in contemplation to 
finish some parts of that cathedral according to drawings left 
by him. Some of the wood engravings of this edition were 
reduced and inserted in the counterfeit copy of the Giunta 


XXX 


edition of 1523. Among the curious plates inserted in this 
translation, are, on folio 14, and on the recto and reverse of 
folio 15, a plan and two sections of the cathedral at Milan. 


1524.—“ M. L. Vitruvio Pollione de Architectura traducto di Latino - 


in Vulgare dal vero exemplare con le figure a li soi loci con 
mirando ordine insignito: con la sua tabula alphabetica: per 
la quale potrai facilmente trovare la moltitudine de li vocabuli 
a li soi loci con summa diligentia expositi: et enucleati: mai 
pit da niuno altro fin al presente facto ad immensa utilitate 
di ciascuno studioso.”—At the end, “‘ Stampata in Venetia, in 
le Case Joanne Antonio et Piero Fratelli de Sabio. Nel 
anno del Signore, m.p.xx1111. Del mese di Martio.”—Folio. 
This is a repetition of the preceding edition, but without the 
notes of Caesar Ceesarianus. 


1535.—“ M. L. Vitruvio Pollione di Architettura dal vero esemplare 


1536. 


latino nella volgar lingua tradotto: e con le figure a suoi 
luoghi con mirando ordine insignito. Anchora con la tavola 
alfabetica: nella quale facilmente si potra trovare la moltitu- 
dine de vocaboli a suoi luoghi con gran diligenza esposti; e 
dichiarati: mai piu da alcuno altro fin al presente stampato a 
grande utilita di ciascuno studioso.”—At the end of the In- 
dex,—“ In Vinegia, per Nicolé de Aristotile detto Zoppino. 
Nelli anni del Signor nostro Giesu Christo dopo la sua nativita 
M.D.xxxv. del mese di Marzo.”—Folio. This is copied from 
the preceding edition, but the Index is not quite so copious. 
A Translation of the first five Books, by Gianbatista Capo-s 
rali. Perugia. Folio. 


1556.—“TI dieci libri dell’? Architettura di M. Vitruvio, tradutti et 


commentati da Monsignor Barbaro Eletto Patriarca d’Aqui- 
leggia. Con due Tavole, I’una di tutto quello si contiene per 
i Capi nell’ Opera, I’ altra per dechiaratione di tutte le cose 


d@ importanza. In Vinezia per Francesco Marcolini, mpLv1.” 
—Folio. 


1567.—* I dieci Libri dell’ Architettura di M. Vitruvio. Tradotti 


et commentati da Mons. Daniel Barbaro eletto Patriarca d’A- 
quileia, da lui riveduti et ampliati; et hora in piu commoda 


XXXi 


forma ridotti. In Venetia, Appresso Francesco de’ Frances- 
chi Senese, et Giovanni Crugher Alemanno Compagni 
MDLXVII.”—Quarto. 


1584,—“ I dieci Libri,” —&c. (ut supra).—‘* In Venetia, Appresso 


Francesco de’ Franceschi Senese, MDLXxx1111.”—Quarto. Si- 
milar to the preceding edition. 


1629.—* I Dieci Libri dell’ Architettura di.M. Vitruvio, Tradotti, 


et Commentati da Monsig. Daniel Barbaro Patriarca d’Aqui- 
leia, da lui riveduti, et ampliati; et hora in questa nuova 
Impressione per Maggior Comodita del Lettore, le materie 
di ciascun Libro ridotte sotto capi, &c. In Venetia. Appresso 
Alessandro de Vecchj, mpcxx1x.”—Small Folio. Very similar 
to the preceding edition. 


1641.—“ L’ Architettura di Vitruvio Libri Dieci. Tradotta, e Com- 


mentata da Monsig. Daniel Barbaro Patriarca d’Aquileia, da 
lui riveduta, et ampliata. Et hora in questa nuova Impres- 
sione per maggior comodita del Lettore, le materie di ciascun 
Libro ridotte sotto capi ete. In Venetia, mpcxxxxi. Per li 
Turrini.”—Small Folio. Little differing from the preceding. 


1758.—“ L’Architettura di M.Vitruvio Pollione colla traduzione Ita- 


1790. 


liana e Comento del Marchese Berardo Accademico Ercola- 
nense, &c. In Napoli mpccivi. Nella Stamperia Simo- 
niana.”—Folio. Accompanied with the Latin text. 
Another Edition, by Galiani, similar to the preceding, but 
without the Latin text. 


THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 





ae SS 











LIST OF THE CHAPTERS. 


BOOK THE FIRST. 


Introduction. (Page 1.) 
What Architecture is: and of the Education of an Architect. 


Chapter I. 
Of those things on which Architecture depends. Chap. IT. f 
Of the different Branches of Architecture. Chap. ITT. / \ \ 
Of the choice of Healthy Situations. Chap. IV. Ree  * N\\ 
f the Foundations of Walls and Towers. Chap. V. se A ee a 









n of Buildings within the Walls. 





Of the Distribution and Situatio 


Chap. VI. z 
Of the choice of Situations for Public Buildings. Chap. VII. 


BOOK THE SECOND. 


Introduction. (Page 33.) 
Of the Origin of Building. Chap. I. 
Of the Origin of all things according to the opinions of Philosophers. 
v Chap. II. 
Age Of Bricks. Chap. ITI. 
~. Of Sand. Chap. IV. 
s Of Lime. Chap. V. 
€ Of Pozzolana. Chap. VI. 
____Of Stone-Quarries.. Chap. VIT. 
_Of the different kinds of Walls. Chap. VIII. 
_Of Timber. Chap»IX.. 
Of the ‘Firs-called Supernas and Infernas, and of the Apennines. 
Chap. X. 


ig! 


LN 


i 


EXXV1 


BOOK THE THIRD. 


Introduction. (Page 75.) 
Of the Design and Symmetry of Temples. Chap. 1G 


Of the Five Species of Temples. Chap. II. 


Of Foundations, and of Columns and their Ornaments. Chap. III. 


BOOK THE FOURTH. 


Introduction. (Page 97.) 

Of the Origin of the Three Sorts of Columns, and of the Corinthian 
Capital. Chap. I. 

Of the Ornaments of Columns. Chap. II. 


\\_ ofdl the Doric Proportions. Chap. III. 


Of the Interior of the Cell and the Arrangement of the Pronaos. 
Chap. IV. 

Of the different Aspects of Temples. Chap. V. 

Of the Proportions of the Doors of Temples. Chap. VI. 

Of the Tuscan Proportions: of Circular Temples, and other Species. 
Chap. VII. 


__Of Altars to the Gods. Chap. VIII. 





BOOK THE FIFTH. 


Introduction. (Page 123.) 

Of the Forum and Basilica. Chap. I. 

Of the Treasury, Prison, and Curia. Chap. IT. 

Of the Theatre, and of its Healthy Situation. Chap. IIT. 

Of Harmony. Chap. IV. 

Of the Vases used in the Theatre. Chap. V. 

Of the Shape of the Theatre. Chap. VI. 

Of the Portico and other Parts of the Theatre. Chap. VII. 

Of the Three Sorts of Scenes, and of the Theatres of the Greeks. 
Chap. VIII. 

Of the Porticos and Passages behind the Scenes. Chap. IX. 


XXXVil 


Of the Arrangement and Parts of Baths. Chap. X. 
Of the Palestra. Chap. XI. 
Of Harbours and other Buildings in Water. Chap. XII. 


BOOK THE SIXTH. 


Introduction. (Page 161.) , f \ 

Of the Situation of Buildings according to the Nature of Different — oh VA \N\ } 
Places. Chap. I. et fa Pa | 

Of the Proportions of Private Buildings to suit the Nature of their . | \ 
Sites. Chap. IT. SS a ee eae ; 

Of Courts (Caveedia). Chap. IIT. 

Of Courts (Atria), Wings or Aisles (Al), the Tablinum and the 
Peristylium. Chap. IV. 

Of Triclinia, CEci, Exedre, Pinacothece and their Dimensions. 
Chap. V. 

Of the Grecian GEci. Chap. VI. 

Of the proper Aspects of Different Sorts of Buildings. Chap. VII. 

Of the Forms of Houses suited to different Ranks of Persons. Chap. 
VIII. 

Of the Proportions of Houses in the Country. Chap IX. 

Of the Arrangement and Parts of Grecian Houses. Chap. X. 

Of the Strength of Buildings. Chap. XI. 


BOOK THE SEVENTH. 


Introduction. (Page 191.) 

Of Pavements. Chap. I. 

Of Tempering Lime for Stucco. Chap. IT. ._ ~\ 
O£Staceo Work. Chap. III. ~~ 

Of Stucco Work in Damp Places. Chap. IV. 

Of the Use of Painting in Buildings. Chap. V. 

Of the Preparation of Marble for Plastering. Chap. VI. 
Of Natural Colours. Chap. VII. 

Of Vermilion and Quicksilver. Chap. VIII. 

Of the Preparation of Vermilion. Chap. IX. 


XXXVili 


Of Artificial Colours. Of Black. Chap. X. 

Of Blue, and of Burnt Yellow. Chap. XI. 

Of White Lead, Verdigrease, and Red Lead. Chap. XII. 
Of Purple. Chap. XIII. 

Of Factitious Colours. Chap. XIV. 


BOOK THE EIGHTH. 


Introduction. (Page 227.) 

Of the Method of Finding Water. Chap. I. © 

Of Rain Water. Chap. II. 

Of the Nature of various Waters. Chap. III. 

Of the Qualities of Waters in certain Places. Chap. IV. 

Of the Means of Judging of Water. Chap. V. 

Of Levelling, and the Instruments used for that Purpose. Chap. 


es Vie” oe 
Of conducting Water. Chap. VII. 


BOOK THE NINTH. 


Introduction. (Page 259.) 
Of the Method of Doubling the Area of a Square. Chap. I. 
Of the Method of constructing a Right Angled Triangle. Chap. II. 


Of the Method of detecting Silver when mixed with Gold. Chap. 
ba 


Of the Universe and the Planets. Chap. IV. 

Of the Sun’s Course through the Twelve Signs. Chap. V. 
Of the Northern Constellations. Chap. VI. 

Of the Southern Constellations. Chap. VII. 


— Of the Construction of Dials by the Analemma. Chap. VIII. 


Of Various Dials, and their Inventors. Chap. IX. 


BOOK THE TENTH. 


Introduction. (Page 293.) 
Of Machines and Engines. Chap. I. 


XXX1X 


Of Machines of Draught. Chap. II. 

Of Another Sort of Machine of Draught. Chap. ITI. 

Of a Similar Machine, of Greater Power. Chap IV. 

Of Another Machine of Draught. Chap. V. 

Of Ctesiphon’s Contrivance for Removing Great Weights. Chap. 
vi. 

Of the Discovery of the Quarry whence Stone was procured for the 
Temple of Diana at Ephesus. Chap. VII. 

Of the Principles of Mechanics. Chap. VIII. 

Of Engines for raising Water; and first of the Tympanum. Chap. 
IX. 

Of Another Sort of Tympanum, and of Water Mills. Chap X. 

Of the Water Screw. Chap. XI. 

Of the Machine of Ctesibius for Raising Water to a Considerable 
Height. Chap. XII. 

Of Water Engines. Chap. XIII. 

Of Measuring a Journey. Chap. XIV. 

Of Catapultz and Scorpions. Chap. XV. 

Of the Construction of the Balista. Chap. XVI. 

Of the Proportions of the Balista. Chap. XVII. 

Of the Preparation of the Balistee and Catapulte. Chap. XVIII. 

Of Machines for Attack. Chap. XIX. 

Of the Tortoise for Filling Ditches. Chap. XX. 

Of Other Sorts of Tortoises. Chap. X XI. 

Of Machines for Defence. Chap. XXII. 


EXPLANATION OF THE HEAD PIECES PREFIXED 
TO THE INTRODUCTION OF EACH BOOK. 


Book I. Plan of Rome. 
II. Mount Athos, as proposed to be sculptured by Dino- 
crates. 
III. Plan of Athens. 
IV. Corinthian, Ionic, and Doric Orders. 
V. A Forum. 
VI. Prothyrum and Roman Shops. 
VII. Specimen of ancient Fresco Painting. 
VIII. View of an Aqueduct. 
IX. The Earth, and Signs of the Zodiac. 
X. Catapults from the Trajan Column. 


THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


oF 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE FIRST. 


TL. CIRC ELAMINIUS. 
12. PANTHEON. 
13, MAUSOLEUM OF AVG. 
14. CIRCUS AGONALIS. 
15. CIRCUS OF FLORA. 
16. THEATRE OF POMPEY. 
1). STADIUM, 
18. THEATRE OF BALBUS 
19. WAUMACHIA 
20. AMPHIT. CASTRENS. 





INTRODUCTION. 


Wnuust, O Cesar, your god-like mind and genius were 
engaged in acquiring the dominion of the world, your 
enemies having been all subdued by your unconquerable 
valour; whilst the citizens were extolling your victories, 
and the conquered nations were awaiting your nod ; whilst 
the Roman senate and people, freed from alarm, were 
enjoying the benefit of your opinions and counsel for 
their governance; I did not presume, at so unfit a period, 
B 


2 


to trouble you, thus engaged, with my writings on 
Architecture, lest I should have incurred your displea- 
sure. When, however, I found that your attention, not 
exclusively devoted to state affairs, was bestowed on the 
state of the public buildings, so that the republic was 
not more indebted to you for its extended empire, in the 
addition of so many provinces, than for your numerous 
public buildings by which its grandeur is amply mani- 
fested, I considered it right that no time should be lost 
in laying these precepts before you. My reverence 
for the memory of your virtuous father, to whom I was 
well known, and from whom, now a participator in coun- 
cil with the gods, the empire descended to you, has 
been the cause of your good will towards me. Hence, 
together with M. Aurelius, P. Numisius, and Cn. Cor- 
nelius, I have been appointed to, and receive the emolu- 
ments arising from the care of, the various engines of war 
which you assigned*to me on the recommendation of your 
sister. As, through your kindness, I have been thus 
placed beyond the reach of poverty, I think it right 
to address this treatise to you; and I feel the more in- 
duced to do so from your having built, and being still 
engaged in the erection of, many edifices. It is proper ° 
to deliver down to posterity, as a memorial, some account 
of these your magnificent works. I have therefore given 
such definite directions for the conduct of works, that 
those already executed, as well as those hereafter to be 
constructed, may be by you well known and understood. 


In the following pages I have developed all the prin- 
ciples of the art. 


CHAPTER IL. 


WHAT ARCHITECTURE IS: AND OF THE EDUCATION 
OF AN ARCHITECT. 


ARCHITECTURE is a science arising out of many other 
sciences, and adorned with much and varied learning; by 
the help of which a judgment is formed of those works 
which are the result of other arts. Practice and theory are 
its parents. Practice is the frequent and continued con-— 
templation of the mode of executing any given work, or of 
the mere operation of the hands, for the conversion of 
the material in the best and readiest way. Theory is the 
result of that reasoning which demonstrates and explains 
that the material wrought has been so converted as to 
answer the end proposed. Wherefore the mere practical 
architect is not able to assign sufficient reasons for the 
forms he adopts; and the theoretic architect also fails, 
grasping the shadow instead of the substance. He who is ) 
theoretic as well as practical, is therefore doubly armed ; pies 
ablenot-only-to~ prove the “propriety-of-his-design, but 
equally so to carry it into execution. In architecture, as 
in other arts, two considerations must be constantly kept 
in view; namely, the intention, and the matter used to 
express that intention: but the intention is founded on 
a conviction that the matter wrought will fully suit the 
purpose ; he, therefore, who is not familiar_with both WY Vv 
branches ‘of the art, has no pretension to the title of 
~~architect. An architect should be ingenious, and apt in 
the acquisition of knowledge. Deficient in either of these 
qualities, he cannot be a perfect master. He should be a 








4 


ae 


. good. writer, a_skilful draftsman, versed in geometry 2 and___ 

‘ ft ~~ optics, expert at figures, acquainted with history, informed 
WN Al on the principles of natural and moral philosophy, some- 

mw oe | - what of'a musician, not ignorant of the sciences both of law 

| and physic, nor of the motions, laws, and relations to 
each other, of the heavenly bodies. By means of the first C4 


eal 


named acquirement, he is to commit to writing his ob- 
servations and experience, in order to assist his memory. 
Drawing is employed in representing the forms of his de- 
signs. Geometry affords much aid to the architect: to it 
he owes the use of the right line and circle, the level and 
the square; whereby his delineations of buildings on 
plane surfaces are greatly facilitated. The science of 
optics enables him to introduce with judgment the requi- 
_/ site quantity of light, according to the aspect. Arithmetic 
estimates the cost, and aids in the measurement of the 
.works ; this, assisted by the laws of geometry, determines 
those abstruse questions, wherein the different proportions 

. of some parts to others are involved. Unless acquainted 
with history, he will be unable to account for the use of 

- many ornaments which he may have occasion to introduce. 
For instance ; should any one wish for information on the 
origin of those draped matronal figures crowned with a 
mutulus and cornice, called Caryatides, he will explain it 
by the following history. Carya, a city of Peloponnesus, 
joined the Persians in their war against the Greeks. These 
in return for the treachery, after having freed themselves 
by a most glorious victory from the intended Persian 
yoke, unanimously resolved to levy war against. the Ca- 
ryans. Carya was, in consequence, taken and destroyed, 
its male population extinguished, and its matrons carried 
into slavery. That these circumstances might be better 


5 


remembered, and the nature of the triumph perpetuated, 
the victors represented them draped, and apparently suf- 
fering under the burthen with which they were loaded, 
to expiate the crime of their native city. Thus, in their 
edifices, did the antient architects, by the use of these 
statues, hand down to posterity a memorial of the crime 
of the Caryans. Again; a small number of Lacede- 
monians, under the command of Pausanias, the son of 
Cleombrotus, overthrew the prodigious army of the Per- 
sians at the battle of Platea. After a triumphal exhibition 
of the spoil and booty, the proceeds of the valour and 
devotion of the victors were applied by the government 
in the erection of the Persian portico; and, as an appro- 
priate monument of the victory, and a trophy for the 
admiration of posterity, its roof was supported by statues 
of the barbarians, in their magnificent costume ; indi- 
cating, at the same time, the merited contempt due to 
their haughty projects, intimidating their enemies by fear 
of their courage, and acting as a stimulus to their fellow 
countrymen to be always in readiness for the defence of 
the nation. This is the origin of the Persian order for the 
support of an entablature; an invention which has en- 
riched many a design with the singular variety it exhibits. 
Many other matters of history have a connexion with archi- 
tecture, and prove the necessity of its professors being 
well versed in it. Moral philosophy will teach the archi- - 
tect to be above meanness-in—his_dealings, and to avoid 
arrogance : it will make him just, compliant and faithful 
to his employer; and what is of the highest importance, 
it will prevent avarice gaining an ascendancy over him : 
for he should not be occupied with the thoughts of filling 
his coffers, nor with the desire of grasping every thing 








6 


in the shape of gain, but, by the gravity of his manners, 
and a good character, should be careful to preserve his dig- 
nity. In these respects we see the importance of moral 
philosophy; for such are her precepts. That branch of 
philosophy which the Greeks call QuswAoyia, or the doc- 
trine of physics, is necessary to him in the solution of 
various problems; as for instance, in the conduct of 
water, whose natural force, in its meandering and expan- 
sion over flat countries, is often such as to require re- 
straints, which none know how to apply, but those who 
are acquainted with the laws of nature: nor, indeed, un- 
less grounded in the first principles of physic, can he 
study with profit the works of Ctesibius, Archimedes, and 
many other authors who have written on the subject. 
‘Music assists him in the use of harmonic and mathema- 
tical proportion. It is, moreover, absolutely necessary in 
adjusting the force of the balistee, catapults, and scor- 
pions, in whose frames are holes for the passage of the 
homotona, which are strained by gut-ropes attached to 
windlasses worked by hand-spikes. Unless these ropes 
are equally extended, which only a nice ear can discover 
by their sound when struck, the bent arms of the engine 
do not give an equal impetus when disengaged, and the 
strings, therefore, not being in equal states of tension, pre- 
vent the direct flight of the weapon. So the vessels called 
nysia by the Greeks, which are placed in certain recesses 
under the seats of theatres, are fixed and arranged witha 
due regard to the laws of harmony and physics, their tones 
being fourths, fifths, and octaves; so that when the voice 
of the actor is in unison with the pitch of these instruments, 
its power is increased and mellowed by impinging there- 
2. He would, moreover, be at a loss in constructing hy- 


VV Vy 


7 


_—__draulic and other engines, if ignorant of music. Skill in 
physic enables hinr fo ascertain the salubrity of different 
tracts of country, and to determine the variation of cli- 
mates, which the Greeks call zAiwzara: for the air and 
water of different situations, being matters of the highest 
importance, no building will be healthy without atten- 
tion to those points. Law should be an object of his 
study, especially those parts of it which relate to party- 
walls, to the free course and discharge of the eaves’ wa- 


ters, the regulations of sesspools and sewage, and those _ oes | 
relating to window Gagk isla: fea y 
his particular attention, that he may prevent his em- 
ployers being involved in law-suits when the building 
is finished. Contracts, also, for the execution of the 
works, should be drawn with care and precision : be- 
cause, when without legal flaws, neither party will be able 
to take advantage of the other. Astronomy instructs ~) 
him in the points of the heavens, the laws of the celes- 
tial bodies, the equinoxes, solstices, and courses of the IDNA 
stars; all of which should be well understood, in the 
___ construction and proportions of'clocks. Since, therefore, 
this art is founded upon and adorned with so many dif- 
ferent sciences, I am of opinion that those who have 
not, from their early youth, gradually climbed up to the 
summit, cannot, without presumption, call themselves 
masters of it. Perhaps, to the uninformed, it may appear 
unaccountable that a man should be able to retain in his 
memory such a variety of learning ; but the close alliance 
with each other, of the different branches of science, will 
explain the difficulty. For as a body is composed of 
various concordant members, so does the whole circle of 
learning consistin one harmonious system. . Wherefore 





8 


those, who from an early age are initiated in the differ- 
ent branches of learning, have a facility in acquiring 
some knowledge of all, from their common connexion 
with each other. On this account Pythius, one of the 
antients, architect of the noble temple of Minerva at 
Priene, says, in his commentaries, that an architect should 
have that perfect knowledge of each art and science 
which is not even acquired by the professors of any one 
in particular, who have had every opportunity of improv- 
ing themselves in it. This, however, cannot be neces- 
sary ; for how can it be expected that an architect should 
equal Aristarchus as a grammarian, yet should he not 
be ignorant of grammar. In music, though it be evi- 
dent he need not equal Aristoxenus, yet he should know 
something of it. Though he need not excel, as Apelles, 


in painting, nor as Myron or Polycletus, in sculpture, _ 


__yet he should have attained some proficiency in these arts. 

So, in the science of medicine, it is not required that he 
should equal Hippocrates. Thus also, in other sciences, it 
is not important that pre-eminence in each be gained, but 
he must not, however, be ignorant of the general principles 
ofeach. For in such a variety of matters, it cannot be 
supposed that the same person can arrive at excellence 
in each, since to be aware of their several niceties and 
bearings, cannot fall within his power. We see how few 
of those who profess a particular art arrive at perfec- 
tion in it, so as to distinguish themselves: hence, if 
but few of those practising an individual art, obtain 
lasting fame, how should the architect, who is required to 
have a knowledge of so many, be deficient in none of 
them, and even excel those who have professed any one 
exclusively. Wherefore Pythius seems to have been in 


a 


9 


error, forgetting that art consists in practice and theory. 
Theory is common to, and may be known by all, but the 
result of practice occurs to the artist in his own art only. 
The physician and musician are each obliged to have 
some regard to the beating of the pulse, and the motion 
of the feet, but who would apply to the latter to heal a 
wound or cure a malady? so, without the aid of the for- 
mer, the musician affects the ears of his audience by mo- 
dulations upon his instrument. The astronomer and 
musician delight in similar proportions, for the posi- 
tions of the stars, which are quartile and trine, answer 
to a fourth and fifth in harmony. The same analogy 
holds in that branch of geometry which the Greeks call 
Aovyos orrixos : indeed, throughout the whole range of art, 
there are many incidents common to all. Practice alone 
can lead to excellence in any one: that architect, there- 
fore, is sufficiently educated, whose general knowledge 
enables him to give his opinion on any branch when 
required to do so. Those unto whom nature has been 
so bountiful that they are at once geometricians, astro- 
nomers, musicians, and skilled in many other arts, go 
beyond what is required of the architect, and may be 
properly called mathematicians, in the extended sense of 
that word. Men so gifted, discriminate acutely, and 
are rarely met with. Such, however, was Aristarchus of 
Samos, Philolaus and Archytas of Tarentum, Apollonius 
of Perga, Eratosthenes of Cyrene, Archimedes and Sco- 
pinas of Syracuse: each of whom wrote on all the 
sciences. Since, therefore, few men are thus gifted, and 
yet it is required of the architect to be generally well in- 
formed, and it is manifest he cannot hope to excel in each 
art, I beseech you, O Cesar, and those who read this 
c 


10 


my work, to pardon and overlook grammatical errors ; 
for I write neither as an accomplished philosopher, an 
eloquent rhetorician, nor an expert grammarian, but as 
an architect: in respect, however, of my art and its prin- 
ciples, I will lay down rules which may serve as an au- 
thority to those who build, as well as to those who are 
already somewhat acquainted with the science. 


11 


CHAPTER II. 


OF THOSE THINGS ON WHICH ARCHITECTURE 
DEPENDS. 


ARcHITECTURE depends on fitness (ordinatio) and ar- 
rangement (dispositio), the former being called raZs¢, in 
Greek, and the latter ds2eos¢; it also depends on propor- 
tion, uniformity, consistency, and economy, which the 
Greeks call oixovozia. Fitness is the adjustment of size 
of the several parts to their several uses, and requires 
due regard to the general proportions of the fabric: it I 


arises out of dimension (quantitas), which eeks call A/\_ Z 
wocorns. Dimension regulates the general scale of the . 


work, so that the parts may all tell and be effective. 
Arrangement is the disposition in their just and proper 
places of all the parts of the building, and the pleasing 
effect of the same ; keeping in view its appropriate cha- 
racter. It is divisible into three heads, which, considered 
together, constitute design: these, by the Greeks, are 
named idéas: they are called ichnography, orthography, 
and scenography. The first is the representation on a 
plane of the ground-plan of the work, drawn by rule and 
compasses. The second is the elevation of the front, 
slightly shadowed, and shewing the forms of the intended 
building. The last exhibits the front and a receding side 
properly shadowed, the lines being drawn to their proper 
vanishing points. These three are the result of thought 
and invention. ‘Thought is an effort of the mind, ever 
incited by the pleasure attendant on success in compass- 
ing an object. Invention is the effect of this effort; which 


12 


throws a new light on things the most recondite, and pro- 
duces them to answer the intended purpose. ‘These are 
the ends of arrangement. Proportion is that agreeable 
harmony between the several parts of a building, which 
is the result of a just and regular agreement of them with 
each other; the height to the width, this to the length, 
and each of these to the whole. Uniformity is the parity 
of the parts to one another; each corresponding with its 
opposite, as in the human figure. The arms, feet, hands, 
fingers, are similar to, and symmetrical with, one an- 
other ; so should the respective parts of a building corre- 
spond. In sacred buildings, for instance, the diameter 
of the columns and the width of the triglyphs must be 
similar. In the balista, by the size of the hole which 
the Greeks call xegizgyrov; in ships, by the space between 
the thowls, which space in Greek is called dirnyaixn, we 
have a measure, by the knowledge of which the whole of 
the construction of a vessel may be developed. Consist- 
ency is found in that work whose whole and detail are suit- 
able to the occasion. It arises from circumstance, custom, 
and nature. From circumstance, which the Greeks call 
Seuerioos, when temples are built, hypethral and un. 
inclosed, to Jupiter, Thunderer, Coelus, the Sun and 
Moon; because these divinities are continually known to 
us by their presence night and day, and throughout all 
space. For a similar reason, temples of the Doric order 
are erected to Minerva, Mars, and Hercules; on account 
of whose valour, their temples should be of masculine 
proportions, and without delicate ornament. The cha- 
racter of the Corinthian order seems more appropriate 
to Venus, Flora, Proserpine, and Nymphs of Foun- 
tains; because its slenderness, elegance and richness, 


13 


and its ornamental leaves surmounted by volutes, seem 

to bear an analogy to their dispositions. A medium be- 

tween these two is chosen for temples to Juno, Diana, 

Bacchus, and other similar deities, which should be of 

the Ionic order, tempered between the severity of the 

Doric and the slenderness and delicacy of the Co- 

rinthian order. In respect of custom, consistency is pre- 

served when the vestibules of magnificent edifices are 

conveniently contrived and richly finished: for those 

buildings cannot be said to be consistent, to whose splen- 

did interiors you pass through poor and mean entrances. 

So also, if dentilled cornices are used in the Doric order, 

or triglyphs applied above the voluted Ionic, thus trans- 

ferring parts to one order which properly belong to 

another, the eye will be offended, because custom 

otherwise applies these peculiarities. Natural consist- 

ency arises from the choice of such situations for tem- 

ples as possess the advantages of salubrious air and water ; 

more especially in the case of temples erected to Aiscu- 

lapius, to the Goddess of Health, and such other divini- 

ties as possess the power of curing diseases. For thus 

the sick, changing the unwholesome air and water to 

which they have been accustomed for those that are 

healthy, sooner convalesce; and a reliance upon the 

divinity will be therefore increased by proper choice of si- - 

tuation. Natural co so ambers = 

ee ee Se ees be wile 

pe picture and other galleries — ( 
uire a steady light, from the north, because | 

poe that quarter the light is not sometimes brilliant 

and at other times obscured, but is nearly the same 

throughout the day. Economy consists in a due and 





14 


proper application of the means afforded according to the 
ability of the employer and the situation chosen ; care being 
taken that the expenditure is prudently conducted. In 
this respect the architect is to avoid the use of materials 
which are not easily procured and prepared on the spot. 
For it cannot be expected that good pit-sand, stone, fir of 
either sort, or marble, can be procured every where in 
plenty, but they must, in some instances, be brought from 
a distance, with much trouble and at great expense. In 
such cases, river or sea-sand may be substituted for pit- 
sand; cypress, poplar, elm, and pine, for the different 
sorts of fir; and the like of the rest, according to cir- 
cumstances. The other branch of economy consists in 
suiting the building to the use which is to be made of 
it, the money to be expended, and the elegance appro- 
priate thereto ; because, as one or other of these circum- 
stances prevails, the design should be varied. That 
which would answer very well as a town house, would 
ill suit as a country house, in which store-rooms must be 
provided for the produce of the farm. So the houses of 


oa cage ris? UNEP TEN differently designed from those 
i built for_me te. Mansions for men of 


consequence in the government must be adapted to their 
particular habits. In short, economy must ever depend 
on the circumstances of the case. 


15 


CHAPTER III. 


OF THE DIFFERENT BRANCHES OF ARCHITECTURE. 


ARcHITECTURE Consists of three branches ; namely, build- 
ing, dialling, and mechanics.. Building is divided into 
two parts. The first regulates the general plan of the 
walls of a city and its public buildings; the other re- 
lates to private buildings. Public buildings are for three 
purposes; defence, religion, and the security of the pub- ANA 
lic. . Buildings for_defence are those walls, towers, and 
gates of a town, necessary for the continual shelter of its 
inhabitants against the attacks of an enemy. ‘Those for 
the purposes of religion are the fanes and temples of the 


immortal gods. Those for public convenience ys es A 


fora or squares for market-places, baths, theatres, walks, : 
and the like ; wbich, being for public we, are pce —~ \\ 
public situations, and should be arranged so as best to 
meet the convenience of the public. All these should pos- 

~__ sess strength, utility, and beauty. Strength arises from . 5 fA ak 
carrying down the foundations to a good solid bottom, ~ 
and from making a proper choice of materials ee 
parsimony. Utility arises from a judicious distribution of 
the parts, so” that their purposes be duly answered, and 
that each have its proper situation. Beauty is produced by 
the pleasing appearance and good taste of the whole, and 
by the dimensions of all the parts being duly propor- . 
tioned to each other. 








16 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF THE CHOICE OF HEALTHY SITUATIONS. 


In setting out the walls of a city the choice of a healthy 
situation is of the first importance: it should be on high 
ground, neither subject to fogs nor rains; its aspects 
should be neither violently hot nor intensely cold, but 
temperate in both respects. The neighbourhood of a 
marshy place must be avoided; for in such a site the 
morning air, uniting with the fogs that rise in the neigh- 
bourhood, will reach the city with the rising sun; and 
these fogs and mists, charged with the exhalation of the 
fenny animals, will diffuse an unwholesome effluvia over 
the bodies of the inhabitants, and render the place pesti- 
lent. A city on. the sea side, exposed to the south or 
west, will be insalubrious; for in summer mornings, a 
city thus placed would be hot, at noon it would be 
scorched, A city, also, with a western aspect, would even 
at sunrise be warm, at noon hot, and in the evening of 
a burning temperature. Hence the constitutions of the 
inhabitants of such places, from such continual and ex- 
cessive changes of the air, would be much vitiated. This 
effect is likewise produced on inanimate bodies: nobody 
. 4___--—-would think of lighting his wine-cellar from the south or the 
/ west, but from the north, an aspect not liable to these 
violent changes. In granaries whose aspects are south 
of the east or west, the stores are soon ruined; an 
provisions, as well as fruits, cannot be long preserved 
unless kept in apartments whose aspects are north of the 
east or west. For heat, which acts as an alterative, by 





17 


drying up the natural moisture of any body, destroys and 
rots those substances on which it acts. Iron, for instance, 
naturally of a hard texture, becomes so soft when heated 
in a forge as to be easily wrought into any form ; but if, 
when heated, it is suddenly immersed in cold water, it 
immediately regains its original quality. Thus, not only 
in unwholesome, but also in salubrious districts, the 
summer heats produce languor and relaxation of body ; 
and in winter, even the most pestilential situations be- 
come wholesome, inasmuch as the cold strengthens and 
restores the constitution of the inhabitants. Hence, 
those who change a cold for a hot:climate, rarely escape 
sickness, but are soon carried off; whereas, on the other 
hand, those who pass from a hot to a cold climate, far 
from being injured by the change, are thereby generally 
strengthened. Much care, then, should be taken so to 
set out the walls of a city, that it may not be obnoxious 
_ to the pestilential blasts of the hot winds. For as, ac- 
cording to those principles which the Greeks call croysia, 
all bodies are compounded of fire, water, earth, and air, 
by whose union and varying proportions the different 
qualities of animals are engendered ; so, in those bodies 
wherein fire predominates, their temperament is de- 
stroyed, and their strength dissipated. Such is the case 
in exposure to certain aspects of the heavens whence the 
heat insinuates itself through the pores in a greater de- 
gree than the temperature of the system will bear. Bodies 
which contain a greater proportion of water than is neces- 
sary to balance the other elements, are speedily corrupted, 
and lose their virtues and properties. Hence bodies are 
much injured by damp winds and atmosphere. Lastly, 


the elements of earth and air being increased or dimi- 
D 








WAL 


18 


nished more than is consistent with the temperature of 
any given body, will have a tendency to destroy its equi- 
librium; the earthy elements by repletion, the aérial by 
the weight of the atmosphere. If any one doubt this, let 
him study the different natures of birds, fishes, and ani- 
mals of the land, and he will easily perceive the truth of 
these principles, from the variety existing among them. 
For there is one flesh of birds, another of fishes, and an- 
other, very different, of land animals. Birds have a small 
proportion of earth and water in their nature, a moderate 
quantity of heat, and a considerable portion of air; whence, 
being light by nature, from their component elements, 
they more easily raise themselves in the air. Fishes, by 
nature adapted to the watery element, are compounded 
of but a moderate degree of heat, a considerable pro- 
portion of air and earth, and a very small portion of 
water, the element in which they live; and hence, easier 
exist in it. Wherefore, when removed from it, they soon 
die. Terrestrial animals, being constituted with much 
air, heat, and water, and but little earth, cannot live in the 
water, on account of the quantity of that element naturally 
preponderating in their composition. Since, then, we are 
thus constantly reminded, by our senses, that the bodies 
of animals are so constituted, and we have mentioned 
that they suffer and die from the want or superabundance 
of any one element not suitable to their temperament, 
surely much circumspection should be used in the choice 
of a temperate and healthy site for a city. The precepts 
of the ancients, in this respect, should be ever observed. 
They always, after sacrifice, carefully inspected the livers 
of those animals fed on that spot whereon the city was 
to be built, or whereon a stative encampment was in- 


19 


.tended. If the livers were diseased and livid, they tried 
others, in order to ascertain whether accident or disease 
was the cause of the imperfection; but if the greater 
part of the experiments proved, by the sound and 
healthy appearance of the livers, that the water and food 
of the spot were wholesome, they selected it for the gar- 
rison. If the reverse, they inferred, as in the case of 
cattle, so in that of the human body, the water and food 
of such a place would become pestiferous; and they 
therefore abandoned it, in search of another, valuing 
health above all other considerations. That the salubrity 
of a tract of land is discovered by the pastures or food 
which it furnishes, is sufficiently clear, from certain qua- 
lities of the lands in Crete, situate in the vicinity of the 
river Pothereus, which lie between the two states of 
Gnosus and Gortyna. There are pasturages on each side 
of this river: the cattle, however, pastured on the Gnossian 
side, when opened, are found with their spleens perfect ; 
whilst those on the opposite side, nearer to Gortyna, re- 
tain no appearance of a spleen. Physicians, in their endea- 
vours to account for this singular circumstance, discovered 
a species of herb eaten by the cattle, whose property was 
that of diminishing the spleen. Hence arose the use of the 
herb which the Cretans call aexAnvos, as a cure for those 
affected with enlarged spleen. When, therefore, a city is 
built in a marshy situation near the sea-coast, with a 
northern, north-eastern, or eastern aspect, on a marsh 
whose level is higher than the shore of the sea, the site is 
not altogether improper ; for by means of sewers the wa- 
ters may be discharged into the sea: and at those times, 
when violently agitated by storms, the sea swells and runs 
up the sewers, it mixes with the water of the marsh, and 


20 


prevents the generation of marshy insects; it also soon 
destroys such as are passing from the higher level, by the 
saltness of its water to which they are unaccustomed. 
An instance of this kind occurs in the Gallic marshes 
about Altinum, Ravenna, and Aquileia, and other places 
in Cisalpine Gaul, near marshes which, for the reasons 
above named, are remarkably healthy. When the marshes 
are stagnant, and have no drainage by means of rivers 
or drains, as is the case with the Pontine marshes, they 
become putrid, and emit vapours of a heavy and pesti- 
lent nature. Thus the old city of Salapia, in Apulia, 
built, as some say, by Diomedes on his return from Troy, 
or, as others write, by Elphias the Rhodian, was so placed 
that the inhabitants were continually out of health. At 
length they applied to Marcus Hostilius, and publicly 
petitioned him, and obtained his consent, to be allowed 
to seek and select a more wholesome spot to which the 
city might be removed. Without delay, and with much 
judgment, he bought an estate on a healthy spot close to 
the sea, and requested the Roman senate and people 
to permit the removal of the.city. He then set out the 
walls, and assigned a portion of the soil to each citizen at 
a moderate valuation. After which, opening a communi- 
cation between the lake*and the sea, he converted the 
former into an excellent harbour for the city. Thus the 
Salapians now inhabit a healthy situation, four miles from 
their ancient city. 


21 


CHAPTER V. 
OF THE FOUNDATIONS OF WALLS AND TOWERS. 


WueEn we are satisfied with the spot fixed on for the site 
of the city, as well in respect of the goodness of the air as 
of the abundant supply of provisions for the support of the 
population, the communications by good roads, and river 
or sea navigation for the transport of merchandise, we 
should take into consideration the method of constructing 
the walls and. towers of the city. Their foundations should 
be carried down to a solid bottom, if such can be found, 
and should be built thereon of such thickness as may be ne- 
cessary for the proper support of that part of the wall which 


stands above the natural level of the ground. They should 
be o ip_and materials, and o: AM 


greater thickness than the walls above. From the exte- 
<——~Tior face of the wall towers must be projected, from which 

an approaching enemy may be annoyed by weapons, from \ 

the embrasures of those towers, right and left. An a 

approach to the walls must be provided against: indeed 

they should be surrounded by uneven ground, and the 

roads leading to the gates should_be winding and turn 

to the left from the gates. By this arrangement, the 

right sides of the attacking troops, which are not covered 

by their shields, will be open to the weapons of the be- 

sieged. The plan of a city should not be square, nor 

formed with acute angles, but polygonal; so that the - 

motions of the enemy may be open to observation. A 

city whose plan is acute-angled, is with difficulty de- 

fended ; for such a form protects the attacker more than . 











22 


the attacked. The thickness of the walls should be suf- 
ficient for two armed men to pass each other with ease. 
tied, from front to rear, with 
many pieces of charred oliye wood; by which means 

the” two ro faces, thus connected, will endure for ages. 

~The advantage of the use of olive is, that it is neither 

AN affected by weather, by rot, or by age. Buried in the 

earth, or immersed in water, it lasts unimpaired: and 

for this reason, not only walls, but foundations, and 

such walls as are of extraordinary thickness, tied toge- 

ther therewith, are exceedingly lasting. ‘The distance 

between each tower should not exceed an arrow’s flight ; 

so that if, at any point between them, an attack be 

. made, the besiegers may be repulsed by the scorpions 
x ib \ ane terial engines stationed_on the towers right 

_and left of the point in question. The walls will be in- 

tercepted by the lower parts of the towers where they 

occur, leaving an interval equal to the width of the tower; 

which space the tower will consequently occupy: but the 

communication across the void inside the tower, must 

be of wood, not at all fastened with iron: so that, if 

the enemy obtain possession of any part of the walls, the 

wooden communication may be promptly cut away by the 

defenders, and thus prevent the enemy from penetrating 

to the other parts of the walls without the danger of pre- 

cipitating themselves into the vacant hollows of the towers. 

The towers should be made either round or polygonal. 

A square is a bad form, on account of its being easily frac- 

tured at the quoins by the battering-ram; whereas the 

circular tower has this advantage, that, when battered, the 

pieces of masonry whereof it is composed being cuneiform, 

they cannot be driven in towards their centre without 





































23 


displacing the whole mass. Nothing tends more to the 
security of walls and towers, than backing them with walls 
or terraces: it counteracts the effects of rams as well as 
of undermining. It is not, however, always necessary to 
construct them in this manner, except in places where the 
besiegers might gain high ground very near the walls, from 
which, over level ground, an assault could be made. In 
the construction of ramparts, very wide and deep trenches 
are to be first excavated; the bottom of which must be 
still further dug out, for receiving the foundation of the 
wall. This must be of sufficient thickness to resist the 
pressure of the earth against it. Then, according to 
the space requisite for drawing up the cohorts in 
military order on the rampart, another wall is to be 
built within the former, towards the city. The outer 
and inner walls are then to be connected by cross walls, 
disposed on the plan after the manner of the teeth of a 
comb or of a saw, so as to divide the pressure of the fill- 
ing in earth into many and less forces, and thus prevent 
the walls from being thrust out. I do not think it requi- 
site to dilate on the materials whereof the wall should be 
composed ; because those which are most desirable, can- 
not, from the situation of a place, be always procured. We 
must, therefore, use what are found on the spot; such as f 
square stones, flint, rubble stones, burnt or unburnt bricks; ANY 
for every place is not provided, as is Babylon, with such 
a substitute for lime and sand as burnt bricks and liquid 
bitumen; yet there is scarcely any spot which does not 


furnish materials whereof a durable wall may not be 
built. 





24, 


CHAPTER VI. 


OF THE DISTRIBUTION AND SITUATION OF BUILD- 
INGS WITHIN THE WALLS. 


Tuer circuit being completed, it behoves us to consider 
the manner of disposing of the area of the space enclosed 
within the walls, and the proper directions and aspects of 
the streets and lanes. ‘They should be so planned as to 
exclude the winds: these, if cold, are unpleasant ; if hot, 
are hurtful; if damp, destructive. A fault in this respect 
must be therefore avoided, and care taken to prevent 
that which occurs in so many cities. For instance; in 
the island of Lesbos, the town of Mytilene is magnificently 
and elegantly designed, and well built, but imprudently 
placed. When the south wind prevails in it, the inha- 
__bitants_fall_sic sick; the north-west wind affects them with 
coughs ; and adhe needs wind restores them to health : but 
the intensity of the cold therein is so great, that no one 
can stand about in the streets and lanes. Wind is a 
floating wave of air, whose undulation continually varies. 
It is generated by the action of heat upon moisture, the 
rarefaction thereby produced creating a continued rush 
of wind.. That such is the case, may be satisfactorily 
proved by observations on brazen zolipyle, which clearly 
shew that an attentive examination of human inventions 
often leads to a knowledge of the general laws of nature. 
/Eolipyle are hollow brazen vessels, which have an open- 
ing or mouth of small size, by means of which they can 
be filled with water. Previous to the water being heated 
over the fire, but little wind is emitted, as soon, however, as 


25 


the water begins to boil, a violent wind issues forth. 
Thus a simple experiment enables us to ascertain and de- 
termine the causes and effects of the great operations of 
the heavens and the winds. Ina place sheltered from the 
winds, those who are in health preserve it, those who are 
ill soon convalesce, though in other, even healthy places, 
they would require different treatment, and this entirely 
on account of their shelter from the winds. The disorders 
difficult to cure in exposed situations are colds, the gout, 
coughs, phthisis, pleurisy, spitting of blood, and those 
diseases which are treated by replenishment instead of ex- 
haustion of the natural forces. Such disorders are cured 
with difficulty. First, because they are the effect of cold; 
secondly, because the strength of the patient being greatly 
diminished by the disorder, the air agitated by the action 
of the winds becomes poor and exhausts the body’s moist- 
ure, tending to make it low and feeble; whereas, that air 
which from its soft and thick nature is not liable to great 
agitation, nourishes and refreshes its strength. Accord- 
ing to some, there are but four winds, namely, Solanus, 
the east wind, Auster, the south wind, Favonius, the west 
wind, and Septentrio, the north wind. But those who are 
more curious in these matters reckon eight winds ; among 
such was Andronicus Cyrrhestes, who, to exemplify the 
theory, built at Athens an octagonal marble tower, on 
each side of which was sculptured a figure representing 
the wind blowing from the quarter opposite thereto. On 
the top of the roof of this tower a brazen Triton with a rod 


in his right hand moved on a pivot, and pointed to the 
N\\ ti uarter in which the wind lay. The other 
winds not above named are Eurus, the south-east wind, 


Africus, the south-west wind, Caurus, by many called 
E 


26 


Corus, the north-west ‘wind, and Aquilo the north-east 
wind. ‘Thus are expressed the number and names of the 
winds and the points whence they blow. To find and lay 
down their situation we proceed as follows: let a marble 
slab be fixed level in the centre of the space enclosed by 
the walls, or let the ground be smoothed and levelled, so 
that the slab may not be necessary. In the centre of this 
plane, for the purpose of marking the shadow correctly, a 
brazen gnomon must be erected. The Greeks call this 
gnomon oxiabeas. The shadow cast by the gnomon is to 
be marked about the fifth ante-meridianal hour, and the 








extreme point of the shadow accurately determined. From 
the central point of the space whereon the gnomon stands, 
asa centre, witha distance equal to the length of shadow 
just observed, describe a circle. After the sun has passed 
the meridian, watch the shadow which the gnomon con- 
tinues to cast till the moment when its extremity again 
touches the circle which has been described. From the two 
points thus obtained in the circumference of the circle de- 
scribe two arcs intersecting each other, and through their 
intersection and the centre of the circle first described 
draw a line to its extremity: this line will indicate the 
north and south points. One-sixteenth part of the circum- 
ference of the whole circle is to be set out to the right and 
left of the north and south points, and drawing lines from 
the points thus obtained to the centre of the circle, we 
have one-eighth part of the circumference for the region 
of the north, and another eighth part for the region of the 
south. Divide the remainders of the circumference on 
each side into three equal parts, and the divisions: or re- 
gions of the eight winds will be then obtained : then let the 
directions of the streets and lanes be determined by the 


27 


tendency of the lines which separate the different regions 
of the winds. Thus will their force be broken and turned 
away from the houses and public ways; for if the di- } 
rections of the streets be parallel to those of the winds, POA ad 
the latter will rush through them with greater violence, 
since from occupying the whole space of the surrounding 
country they will be forced up through a narrow pass. 
Streets or public ways ought therefore to be so set out, 
__that_when the winds blow hard their violence may be 
broken against the angles of the different divisions of the 
city, and thus dissipated. Those who are accustomed to 
the names of so many winds, will perhaps be surprised at 
our division of them into eight only; but if they reflect that 
the circuit of the earth was ascertained by Eratosthenes of 
Cyrene, from mathematical calculations, founded on the 
sun’s course, the shadow of an equinoctial gnomon, and the 
obliquity of the heavens, and was discovered to be equal 
to two hundred and fifty-two thousand stadia or thirty-one 
millions and five hundred thousand paces, an eighth part 
whereof, as occupied by each wind, being three millions 
nine hundred and thirty-seven thousand five hundred 
paces, their surprise will cease, because of the number 
of impediments and reverberations it must naturally 
be subject to in travelling such distance through such 
varied space. To the right and left of the south wind blow 
respectively Euronotus and Altanus. On the sides of Afri- 
cus, the’ south-west wind, Libonotus southward and 
Subvesperus northward. On the southern side of Favo- 
nius, the west wind, Argestes, and on its northern side 
Etesiz. On the western side of Caurus, the north-west 
wind, Circius, on its northern side Corus. On the west- 
ern and eastern sides respectively of Septentrio, the north 














28 


wind, Thrascias and Gallicus. From the northern side 
of Aquilo, the north-east wind, blows Supernas, from its 
southern side Boreas. Solanus, the east wind, has Car- 
bas on its northern side, and Ornithize on its southern 
side. Eurus, the south-east wind, has Ceecias and Vul- 
turnus on its eastern and southern sides respectively. 
Many other names, deduced from particular places, rivers, 
or mountain storms, are given to the winds. There 
are also the morning breezes, which the sun rising 
from his subterranean regions, and acting violently on 
the humidity of the air collected during the night, ex- 
tracts from the morning vapours. These remain after 
sunrise, and are classed among the east winds, and hence 
receive the name of edges given by the Greeks to that wind, 
so also from the morning breezes they called the morrow 
avesov. Some deny that Eratosthenes was correct in his 
measure of the earth, whether with propriety or other- 
wise, is of no consequence in tracing the regions whence 
the winds blow : for it is clear there is a great difference be- 
tween the forces with which the several winds act. Inas- 
much as the brevity with which the foregoing rules are laid 
down may prevent their being clearly understood, I have 
thought it right to add for the clearer understanding 
thereof two figures, or as the Greeks call them cyjpara, 
at the end of this book. ‘The first shews the precise re- 
gions whence the different winds blow. The second, the 
method of disposing the streets in such a manner as to 
dissipate the violence of the winds and render them in- 
noxious. Let A be the centre of a perfectly level and 
plane tablet whereon a gnomon is erected. The ante- 
meridianal shadow of the gnomon being marked at B, 
from A, as a centre with the distance AB, describe a 


29 


complete circle. ‘Then replacing the gnomon correctly, 
watch its increasing shadow, which after the sun has 
passed his meridian, will gradually lengthen till it become 
exactly equal to the shadow made in the forenoon, then 
again touching the circle at the point C. From the 
points B and C, as centres, describe two arcs cutting each 
other in D. From the point D, through the centre of 
the circle, draw the line EF, which will give the north 
and south points. Divide the whole circle into sixteen 
parts. From the point E, at which the southern end of 
the meridian line touches the circle, set off at G and H 
to the right and left a distance equal to one of the said 
sixteen parts, and in the same manner on the north side, 
placing one foot of the compasses on the point F, mark 
on each side the points I and K, and with lines drawn 
through the centre of the circle join the points GK and 
HI, so that the space from G to H will be given to the 
south wind and its region; that from I to K to the 
_north wind. The remaining spaces on the right and left 
are each to be divided into three equal parts; the ex- 
treme points of the dividing lines on the east sides, to be 
designated by the letters L and M; those on the west by 
the letters NO; from M to O and from L to N draw 
lines crossing each other: and thus the whole circum- 
ference will be divided into eight equal spaces for the 
winds. The figure thus described will be furnished with 
a letter at each angle of the octagon. Thus, beginning 
at the south, between the regions of Eurus and Auster, 
will be the letter G; between those of Auster and Afri- 
cus, H; between Africus and Favonius, N; between 
that and Caurus, O; K between Caurus and Septen- 
trio; between Septentrio and Aquilo, 1; between Aquilo 


30 


and Solanus, L; and between that and Eurus, M. Thus 
adjusted, let a bevel gauge be applied to the different 
angles of the octagon, to determine the directions of the 
different streets and lanes. 


31 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF THE CHOICE OF SITUATIONS FOR PUBLIC 
BUILDINGS. 


Tue lanes and streets of the city being set out, the choice 
~~f sites for the convenience and use of the state remains 
to be decided on; for sacred edifices, for the forum, and 
for other public buildings. If the place adjoin the sea, 
the forum should be placed close to the harbour: if in- 
land, it should be in the centre of the town. The tem- 


__ ples of the gods, protectors of the city, also those of _ 


~~ Jupiter, Juno, and “Minerva, should be on.some-eminence 


which commands a view of the greater part of the city. 
The temple of Mercury should be either in the forum, 
or, as also the temple of Isis and Serapis, in the great 
public square. Those of Apollo and Father Bacchus 
near the theatre. If there be neither amphitheatre nor 
gymnasium, the temple of Hercules should be near the 
circ The temple of Mars should be out of the city, 
in the neighbouring country. That of Venus near to the 
gate. According to the regulations of the Hetrurian 
Haruspices, the temples of Venus, Vulcan, and Mars 
should be so placed that those of the first be not in the 
way of contaminating the matrons and youth with the 
influence of lust; that those of Vulcan be away from 
the city, which would consequently be freed from the 
danger of fire; the divinity presiding over that element 
being drawn away by the rites and sacrifices performing 
in his temple. The temple of Mars should be also out 
of the city, that no armed frays may disturb the peace of 





32 


the citizens, and that this divinity may, moreover, be ready 
to preserve them from their enemies and the perils of war. 
The temple of Ceres should be in a solitary spot out of 
the city, to which the public are not necessarily led but 
for the purpose of sacrificing to her. This spot is to be re» 

___yerenced with religious awe and solemnity of demeanour, 
by those pw hub ilae Tead Whee to ) visit it; Appropriate 
situations must also be chosen for the temples and places 
of sacrifice to the other divinities. For the construc- 
tion and proportions of the edifices themselves, I shall 
give rules in the third and fourth books; because it ap- 
pears to me, that in the second book I ought to ex- 
plain the nature of the different materials employed in 
building, their qualities and use ; and then, in the other 
books, to give rules for the dimensions of buildings, the 
orders, and their proportions. 


THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE SECOND. 

















INTRODUCTION. 


Drvocrartes the architect, relying on the powers of his 
skill and ingenuity, whilst Alexander was in the midst of 
his conquests, set out from Macedonia to the army, de- 
sirous of gaining the commendation of his sovereign. 
That his introduction to the royal presence might be fa- 
cilitated, he obtained letters from his countrymen and 
relations to men of the first rank and nobility about the 
king’s person; by whom being kindly received, he be- 
F 


34 


sought them to take the earliest opportunity of accom- 
plishing his wish. They promised fairly, but were slow 
in performing ; waiting, as they alleged, for a proper occa- 
sion. Thinking, however, they deferred this without just 
grounds, he took his own course for the object he had in 
view. He was, I should state, a man of tall stature, pleas- 
ing countenance, and altogether of dignified appearance. 
Trusting to the gifts with which nature had thus endowed 
him, he put off his ordinary clothing, and having anointed 
himself with oil, crowned his head with a wreath of pop- 
lar, slung a lion’s skin across his left shoulder, and carrying 
a large club in his right hand, he sallied forth to the royal 
tribunal, at a period when the king was dispensing jus- 
tice. The novelty of his appearance excited the atten- 
tion of the people ; and Alexander soon discovering, with 
astonishment, the object of their curiosity, ordered the 
crowd to make way for him, and demanded to know who 
he was. ‘A Macedonian architect,’ replied Dinocrates, 
“‘who suggests schemes and designs worthy your royal 
renown. I propose to form Mount Athos into the statue 
of a man holding a spacious city in his left hand, and in 
his right a huge cup, into which shall be collected all the 
streams of the mountain, which shall thence be poured 
into the sea.” Alexander, delighted at the proposition, 
made immediate inquiry if the soil of the neighbourhood 
were of a quality capable of yielding sufficient produce for 
such a state. When, however, he found that all its sup- 
plies must be furnished by sea, he thus addressed Dino- 
crates: ‘I admire the grand outline of your scheme, and 
am well pleased with it: but I am of opinion he would 
be much to blame who planted a colony on such a spot. 
For as an infant is nourished by the milk of its mother, 


35 


depending thereon for its progress to maturity, so a city 
depends on the fertility of the country surrounding it for 
its riches, its strength in population, and not less for its 
defence against an enemy. ‘Though your plan might be 
carried into execution, yet I think it impolitic. I never- 
theless request your attendance on me, that I may other- 
wise avail myself of your ingenuity.” From that time 
Dinocrates was in constant attendance on the king, and 
followed him into Egypt; where Alexander having per- 
ceived a spot, at the same time naturally strong, the centre 
of the commerce of the country, a land abounding with 
corn, and having those facilities of transport which the Nile 
afforded, ordered Dinocrates to build a city whose name 
should be Alexandria. Dinocrates obtained this honour 
through his comely person and dignified deportment. But 
to me, Emperor, nature hath denied an ample stature; my 
face is wrinkled with age, and sickness has impaired my 
constitution. Deprived of these natural accomplish- 
ments, I hope, however, to gain some commendation 
through the aid of my scientific acquirements, and the 
~~ precepts-tshattteliver. In the first book I have treated 
of architecture, and the parts into which it is divided ; 
of the walls of a city, and the division of the space within 
the walls. The directions for the construction of sacred 
a eronation and syne: will follow 
and be explained: but I think they will be out of place, 
unless I previously give an account of the materials and 
workmanship used in their erection, together with an in- 
vestigation of their sev i ieation in 


- different_cases. Even this I must preface with an in- 
ry into the origin and various species of the earliest 





oma 


36 


ildings, and their gradual advance to perfection. In 
this I sha é herself, and those 


who have written on the progress from savage to civil- 
ized life, and the inventions consequent on the latter 
state of society. Thus guided, I will proceed. 


37 


CHAPTER I. 
OF THE ORIGIN OF BUILDING. 


Manxinp originally brought forth like the beasts of the 
field, in woods, dens, and groves, passed their lives in 
a savage manner, eating the simple food which nature af- 
forded. A tempest, on a certain occasion, having ex- 
ceedingly agitated the trees in a particular spot, the fric- 
tion between some of the branches caused them to take 
fire; this so alarmed those in the neighbourhood of the 
accident, that they betook themselves to flight. Return- 
ing to the spot after the tempest had subsided, and find- 
ing the warmth which had thus been created extremely 
comfortable, they added fuel to the fire excited, in order 
to preserve the heat, and then went forth to invite others, 
by signs and gestures, to come and witness the discovery. 
In the concourse that thus took place, they testified their 
different opinions and expressions by different inflexions 
of the voice. From daily association words succeeded to 
these indefinite modes of speech ; and these becoming by 
degrees the signs of certain objects, they began to join 
them together, and conversation became general. Thus 
the discovery of fire gave rise to the first assembly of 
mankind, to their first deliberations, and to their union 
in a state of society. For association with each other 
they were more fitted by nature than other animals, from 
their erect posture, which also gave them the advantage 
of continually viewing the stars and firmament, no less 
than from their being able to grasp and lift an object, and 


38 


turn it about with their hands and fingers. In the as- 
sembly, therefore, which thus brought them first together, 
they were led to the consideration of sheltering themselves 
from the seasons, some by making arbours with the 
boughs of trees, some by excavating caves in the moun- 
tains, and others in imitation of the nests and habitations 
of swallows, by making dwellings of twigs interwoven 
and covered with mud or clay. From observation of and 
improvement on each others’ expedients for sheltering 
themselves, they soon began to provide a better species 
of huts. It was thus that men, who are by nature of an 
imitative and docile turn of mind, and proud of their own 
inventions, gaining daily experience also by what had been 
previously executed, vied with each other in their pro- 
gress towards perfection in building. ‘The first attempt 
was the mere erection of a few spars united together with 
twigs and covered with mud. Others built their walls of 
dried lumps of turf, connected these walls together by 
means of timbers laid across horizontally, and covered the 
erections with reeds and boughs, for the purpose of shel- 
tering themselves from the inclemency of the seasons. 
Finding, however, that flat coverings of this sort would 
not effectually shelter them in the winter season, they 
made their roofs of two inclined planes meeting each 
other in a ridge at the summit, the whole of which they 
covered with clay, and thus carried off the rain. We are 
certain that buildings were thus originally constructed, 
from the present practice of uncivilized nations, whose 
buildings are of spars and thatch, as may be seen in 
Gaul, in Spain, in Portugal, and in Aquitaine. The 
woods of the Colchi, in Pontus, furnish such abun- 
dance of timber, that they build in the following manner. 


89 


Two trees are laid level on the earth, right and left, at 
such distance from each other as will suit the length of 
the trees which are to cross and connect them. On the 
extreme ends of these two trees are laid two other trees 
transversely: the space which the house will inclose is 
thus marked out. The four sides being thus set out, 
towers are raised, whose walls consist of trees laid hori- 
zontally but kept perpendicularly over each other, the 
alternate layers yoking the angles. The level interstices 
which the thickness of the trees alternately leave, is filled 
in with chips and mud. On a similar principle they form 
their roofs, except that gradually reducing the length of 
the trees which traverse from angle to angle, they assume 
a pyramidal form. ‘They are covered with boughs and 
smeared over with clay; and thus after a rude fashion 
of vaulting, their quadrilateral roofs are formed. ‘The 
Phrygians, who inhabit a champain country destitute of 
timber, choose natural hillocks, which they pierce and 
hollow out for their accommodation, as well as the nature 
of the soil will permit. These dwellings they cover with 
roofs constructed of logs bound together, covered with 
reeds and straw, and coated with a large quantity of 
earth. This species of covering protects the hut from the 
extreme heat of the summer, as well as from the piercing 
cold of the winter. The weeds which grow in the vi- 
cinity of pools are used in other parts of the covering of 
huts. Each nation, in short, has its own way of build- 
ing, according to the materials afforded and the habits of 
the country. At Marseilles the roofs are covered with 
straw and earth mixed up together, instead of tiles. At. 
Athens, even to this day, the Areopagus, an example of 
remote antiquity, is covered with clay; and the house of 


40 


Romulus in the capitol, by its thatched roof, clearly ma- 
nifests the simple manners and habits of the ancients. 
It is from such specimens we are enabled to form just 
ideas of the early method of building. Daily practice 
made the original builders more skilful, and experience 
increased their confidence ; those who took more delight 
in the science making it their exclusive profession. Thus 
man, who, in addition to the senses which other ani- 
mals enjoy in common with him, is gifted by nature with 
such powers of thought and understanding, that no sub- 
ject is too difficult for his apprehension, and the brute 
creation are subject to him from his superiority of in- 
tellect, proceeded by degrees to a knowledge of the other 
arts and sciences, and passed from a savage state of life 
to one of civilization. From the courage which his 
gradual success naturally excited, and his engagement 
in those various speculations with which the arts are 
connected, his ideas expanded ; and from building huts 
he soon proceeded to the erection of houses constructed 
with brick walls or with stones, whose roofs were of tim- 
ber covered with tiles. ‘Thus by experience and obser- 
vation the knowledge of certain proportions was attained, 
which in the beginning were fluctuating and uncertain ; 
and advantage being taken of the bounty of nature, in 
her supply of timber and other building materials, the 
rising art was so cultivated that by the help of other arts 
mere necessity was lost sight of; and by attending to the 
comforts and luxuries of civilized society, it was carried 
to the highest degree of perfection. I shall now, to the 
best of my ability, proceed to treat of those materials 
which are used in building, their quality, and use. Lest 
any one object that the order of my treatise on the matters 


41 


in question be not well arranged, and that this book 
should have had precedence of the last, I think it proper 
to state, that in writing a Dissertation on Architecture I 
considered myself bound, in the first place, to set forth 
those branches of learning and science with which it is 
connected, to explain its origin and different species, and 
to enumerate the qualifications which an architect should 
possess. Hence, having first adverted to those principles 
on which the art: depends, I shall now proceed to an ex- 
planation of the nature and use of the different materials 
employed in the practice of it. This work not being in- 
tended for a treatise on the origin of architecture; that 
origin, and the degrees by which it passed to its present 
state of perfection, is only incidentally mentioned. ‘This 
book is consequently in its proper place. I shall’ now 
proceed to treat, in an intelligible manner, of the mate- 
rials which are appropriate for building, how they are 
formed by nature, and of the analysis of their component 
parts. For there is no material nor body of any sort what- 
ever which is not composed of various elementary par- 
ticles ; and if their primary composition be not duly under- 
stood, no law of physics: will explain their nature to our 
satisfaction.. 


42 


CHAPTER II. 


OF THE ORIGIN OF ALL THINGS ACCORDING TO THE 
OPINIONS OF PHILOSOPHERS. 


Tuares thought that water was the first principle of all 
things. Heraclitus, the Ephesian, who, on account of 
the obscurity of his writings, was called ozoremos by the 
Greeks, maintained a similar doctrine in respect of fire. 
Democritus, and his follower Epicurus, held similar opi- 
nions with regard to atoms; by which term is understood 
such bodies as are incapable of being cut asunder, or, as 
some say, of further division. ‘To water and fire the phi- 
losophy of the Pythagoreans added air and earth. Hence 
Democritus,though loosely expressing himself, seems to 
have meant the.same thing, when he calls the elements 
indivisible bodies; for when he considers them incapable 
of corruption or alteration, and of eternal duration and 
infinite solidity, his hypothesis makes the particles not 
yet so connected as to form a body. Since, therefore, all 
bodies consist of and spring from these elements, and in 
the great variety of bodies the quantity of each element 
entering into their composition is different, I think it right 
to investigate the nature of their variety, and explain how. 
it affects the quality of each in the materials used for 
building, so that those about to build may avoid mistakes, 
and be, moreover, enabled to make a proper choice of 
such materials as they may want. 


43 


CHAPTER IIL. 


OF BRICKS. 


I suaxu first treat of bricks, and the earth of which they 
ought to be made. Gravelly, pebbly, and sandy clay are 
unfit for that purpose; for if made of either of these 
sorts of earth, they are not only too ponderous, but walls 
built of them, when exposed to the rain, moulder away, 

and are soon decomposed, and the straw, also, with which 
they are mixed, will not sufficiently bind the earth toge~_ NM 
‘ther, because of its rough quality. - They should be made 

of earth of a red or white chalky, or a strong sandy na- 
ture. These sorts_of earth are ductile and cohesive,—— 
and not being heavy, bricks made of them are more 
easily handled in carrying up the work. The proper 
seasons for brick-making are the spring and autumn, 
because they then dry more equably. Those made in 

the summer solstice are defective, because the heat of the 

sun soon imparts to their external surfaces an appearance 

of sufficient dryness, whilst the internal parts of them are 


in a very different state; hence, when thoroughly dr 
they shrink and break those parts which were dry in the 











first instance ; and thus broken, their strength is gone. 
Those are best that have been made at least two years ; 

_ for in a period less than that they will not dry thoroughly. — 
When plastering is laid and set hard on bricks which are 
not perfectly dry, the bricks, which will naturally shrink, 


and consequently occupy a_less _space_ than the plaster-____ 


ing, will thus leave the latter to stand of itself. From its 


nen 





44: 


being extremely thin, and not capable of supporting it- 
self, it soon breaks to pieces ; and in its failure sometimes 
involves even that of the wall. It is not, therefore, with- 
out reason that the inhabitants of Utica allow no bricks 
am, GY Mae as in their buildings which are not at least five 
ears old, and also approved by a magistrate. There are 
. three sorts of bricks ; the first is that which the Greeks call 
Didoron (d:dag0v), being the sort we use ; that is, one foot 
long, and half a foot wide. The two other sorts are used 
in Grecian buildings ; one is called Pentadoron, the other 
Tetradoron. By the word Doron the Greeks mean a 
palm, because the word dweoy signifies a gift which can 
be borne in the palm of the hand. That sort, therefore, 
which is five palms each way is called Pentadoron ; that 
of four palms, Tetradoron. The former of. these. two 
sorts is used in public buildings, the latter in private. 
Each sort has half bricks made to suit it; so that when 
a wall is executed, the course on one of the faces of the 
wall shews sides of whole bricks, the other face of half 
bricks; and being worked to the line on each face, the 
bricks on each bed bond alternately over the course 


this method gives, it affords Additional strength, by the _ 
m middle of a brick, on a. rising course, falling over the 
"vertical joints~of the course thereunder. The bricks of 
Calentum in Spain, Marseilles in France, and. Pitane in 
Asia, are, when wrought and dried, specifically lighter 
than water, and hence swim thereon. This must arise 
from the porosity of the earth whereof they are made ; 
the air contained ir in the pores, to which the water cannot 


penetrate, giving them a buoyant property. Earth of 
ringer le eee en aL 








below. Besides the pleasant_ varied Y hich 





45 


this sort being, therefore, of such a light and thin qua- 
lity, and impervious to water, be a lump thereof of 
whatever size, it swims naturally like pumice-stone. 
Bricks of this sort are of great use for building purposes ; 


for they are neither heavy nor liable to be injured by the 
rain. 


46 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF SAND. 


| /\ ' In buildings of rubble work it is of the first importance 
\/ La tn sand be ft for mixing with the lime, and unal- 
loyed with earth. e different sorts are these; black, 
white, deep red, and bright red. The best of each of 
these sorts is that which, when rubbed between the 
fingers, yields a grating sound. That, also, which is 
earthy, and does not possess the roughness above named, 
is fit for the purpose, if it merely leave astain or any par- 
ticles of earth on a white garment, which can easily be 
brushed away. If there be no sand-pits where it can be 
dug, river sand or sifted gravel must be used. Even sea 

* sand may be had recourse to, but it dries very slowly ; and 
walls wherein it is used must not be much loaded, unless 
carried up in small portions atatime. It is not, however, 
fit for those walls that are to receive vaulting. In _plas- 
tered walls, built with sea sand, the salt which exudes de- 
stroys the plaster; but plaster readily adheres to and 
dries on walls built with new pit sand, and vaulting may 
safely spring from them. If sand have been dug a long 
time, and exposed to the sun, the moon, and the rain, it 
loses its binding quality, and becomes earthy; neither 
when used does it bind the rubble stones together so 
as to prevent them sliding on their beds and falling out: 
nor is it fit to be used in walls where great weights 
are to be supported. Though pit sand is excellent for 
mortar, it is unfit for plastering; for being of a rich 





47 


quality, when added to the lime and straw, its great 
strength does not suffer it to dry without cracks. The 
poorness of the river sand, when tempered with beaters, 
makes the plastering as hard as cement. 


v\ 





48 


CHAPTER. V.. 
OF LIME. 


Havine treated of the different sorts of sand, we proceed 
to an explanation of the nature of lime, ba cc 
either from white stone or flint. ‘That which is of a 
close and hard texture is better for building walls ; as that 
which is more porous is better for plastering. When 
slaked for making mortar, if pit sand be used, three parts 
of sand are mixed with one of lime. If river or sea sand 
be made use of, two parts of sand are given to one of 
lime, which will be found a proper proportion. If to 
river or sea sand, potsherds ground and passed through a 
sieve, in the proportion of one third part, be added, the 
mortar will be better for use. ‘The cause of the mass be- 
coming solid when sand and water are added to the lime, 
appears to be, that stones, like other bodies, are a com- 
pound of elements: those which contain large quantities _ 
of air bein hose which have a great proportion of 
er being tough, of earth, hard, of fire, brittle; For _ 
stones which, when burnt, would make excellent lime 
__if pot and mixed with sand, without burning, would 
__neither bind the work together, nor _set_hard; but 
having passed through the kiln, and having lost the 


pro of their former tenacity_by the action—of_in- 
tense heat, their adhesiveness being exhausted, the pores 


are left open and inactive. The moisture and air which 
were in the body of the stone, having, therefore, been 
extracted and exhausted, the heat being partially re- 
tained, when the substance is immersed in water before 
































49 


the heat can be dissipated, it acquires strength by the 
water rushing into all its pores, effervesces, and at last 
the heat is excluded. Hence, limestone, previous to its 








eee much heavier than it _is after having passed 
through 1 iln : though equal i it is known 





__by the abstraction of the moisture it previously contained 
___to lose_one-third of its weig y the process. The 








pores of limestone, being thus opened, it more easily takes 
up the sand mixed with it, and adheres thereto; and 
hence, in drying, binds the stones together, by which 
sound work is obtained. 


Calds 


Cais CO. , 


50 


CHAPTER VI. 


OF POZZOLANA. 


TueEre is a species of sand which, naturally, possesses 
extraordinary qualities. It is found about Baie and the 
territory in the neighbourhood of Mount Vesuvius; if 
mixed with lime and rubble, it hardens as well under 


(\—_water as in ordinary buildings. This seems to arise from 
the hotness of the earth under these mountains, and the 


abundance of springs under their bases, which are heated 
either with sulphur, bitumen, or alum, and indicate very 
intense fire. The inward fire and heat of the flame which 
escapes and burns through the chinks, makes this earth 
light; the sand-stone (tophus), therefore, which is gathered 
in the neighbourhood, is dry and free from moisture. 
Since, then, three circumstances of a similar nature, 
arising from the intensity of the fire, combine in one 
mixture, as soon as moisture supervenes, they cohere and 
quickly harden through dampness; so that neither the 
waves nor the force of the water can disunite them. 
That these lands are affected with heat, as surmised, is 
evident, because in the mountains of Cume and at 
Baiz, sweating places are excavated, in which the hot 
vapour rising upwards from the intensity of the fire, 
strikes through the earth, and so escapes in these places 
that they are singularly beneficial for the purpose. It is 
moreover said that in former times fires under Vesuvius 
existed in abundance, and thence evolved flames about 
the fields. Thus that which we call sponge-stone, or 
Pompeian pumice-stone, burnt from another species of 


dl 





stone, appears to be acted on by fire so as to possess a 
uality of this sort. The species of sponge-stone, how- 
ever, thence obtained, is not found except in the neigh- 
bourhood of £tna and the hills of Mysia, which the 
Greeks call xaraxexavyévor, and places of such descrip- 
tion. If, therefore, in these places hot springs and heated 
vapours are found in the cavities of the mountains, and 
the spots are recorded by the antients to have been sub- 
ject to fires issuing out of the lands, it seems certain that 
the moisture is extracted from the sand-stone and earth in 
their neighbourhood, by the strength of the fire, as from 
lime-stone in a kiln. Dissimilar and unequal actions 
"peinrg thus Concéittrated towards the same end, the great 
want of moisture quickly supplied by water binds and 
strongly cements them, and also imparts a rapid solidity, 
by means of the heat common to both the bodies. It is 
needless to enquire why, as there are many hot springs in 
Tuscany, we do not there find a powder, which, for the 
same reason, would harden under water: should I be 
thereon questioned, I would thus explain the circum- 
stance. All lands do not possess similar qualities ; nor 
is stone universally found. Some lands are earthy, others 
gravelly, others gritty, others sandy: in short, the quality 
of land, in different parts of the earth, varies.as much 
as even the climate itself. For instance; on the side of 
the Apennines towards Tuscany, sand-pits are found 
in abundance; whereas, on the other side of the Apen- 
‘nines, facing the Adriatic, none are discoverable: so also 
in Achaia, Asia, and universally on the other side of the 
sea, such things are not known. It does not therefore 
follow, that in all places abounding with hot springs all 
other circumstances should be similar. Nature has not 


52 


made all things to suit the convenience of man, but dif- 
ferently and fortuitously. Hence, in places where the 
mountains are not earthy, but of stone, the force of the 
fire escaping through the chinks burns that which is soft 
and tender, whilst that which is hard is left. Thus the 
earth of Campania, when burnt, becomes a powder ; that 
of Tuscany a coal. Both of these are of great use in 
building, one species being very serviceable in land 
works, the other in works under water. In Tuscany, 
however, the quality of the material is softer than sand- 
stone, but harder than earth; and from its entire subjec- 
tion to the action of the sub-existing fire, it becomes that 
sort of sand which is called carbunculus. 


CHAPTER VII. 
OF STONE QUARRIES. 


I nave described the different species of lime and sand, and 
their qualities. Stone quarries, from which square and 


. rubble stones are procured and prepared for the purposes 


of building, will now be considered. The qualities of 
these differ very much. Some stone is soft; th 

instance, found in the neighbourhood of Rome, in the 
countries of the Pallienses, Fidenates, and Albanze. Some 
moderately so, as the Tiburtine, Amiternine, Soractine, 





and those of that sort. Others_are har n 

There are many other species, as the red and black sand- 
stone (tophus) of Campania, and the white sort of Um. 
bria, Picenum, and Venice, which is cut with a saw like 








wood. _The soft species have this advantage, that when 


recently taken from the quarry they are easily worked, 
and answer well under cover ; but when used in open and 
exposed situations, and subjected to the action of the frost 
and rain, they soon become friable, and moulder away. 
They are also much affected by the salt near the sea-shore, 
and are not capable of preserving their strength when ex- 
posed to great heat. The Tiburtine stones, and those 
of a similar nature, resist great weights no less than the 
action of the weather, but are easily injured by fire. The 
instant they are exposed to that they are ruined, from 
their possessing so small a quantity of moisture; their 





WM 


LA A 
<_ces are few, and the quantity of air ang NV A. 


H 


~ fire in them_considerable. Hence, from the small por- 
,_..--~“fion of earth and water which they contain, the fire easily 


54 


acts upon them, and, occupying the interstices, drives 
out the air with accumulated violence, and communicates 

its own hot quality to them. ‘There are many quarries 

on the borders of the Tarquinienses, called the Anician 
quarries, in colour much resembling the Alban stone. 
They are worked in most abundance in the neighbour- 
hood of the Volscinian Lake, and in the prefecture of 
Statonia. This stone has numberless good qualities ; 
neither frost nor fire affects it. It is hard and durable, 
_from its containing but little air and fire, but a moderate 
—quantity. of moisture, and much earth. | Closé-in tex- 
ture, it is not injured by the weather nor: nor by heat. The 
monuments about Ferentinum, which are built of this 
stone, prove its durability; among these may be obsérved © 
large statues well executed, bas-reliefs on a smaller scale, 

and acanthus leaves and flowers elegantly carved, which 
_though long since wrought, appear as fresh as though 
they were ‘but recently f finished. From the stones of 
the above quarries the metal founders make their casting 
moulds, for which they are well calculated. If this 
stone were to be had near Rome, it would be used in 
all works about the city, to which it is indeed worthy 
to be applied. But as necessity, on account of proxi- 
mity to the quarries, obliges us to use the red sort of 
stone, that of the Pallienses and other species in the 
immediate vicinity of the city, in order to find that which 
is least defective, let it be selected as follows. ‘Two years 
before the commencement of the building, the stones 
should be extracted from the quarries in the summer sea- 
son; by no means in the winter; and they should then 
_be exposed to the vicissitudes ai and action of the \ weather. 

ec 














55 


the weather, may be used in the foundations; but those 
which continue sound after this ordeal, will endure in 
the parts above ground. These rules apply equally to 
squared as to rubble or unsquared stone work. 


56 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF WALLS. 


Tue different species of walls are, the RETICULATUM (net- 
like), a method now in general use, and the INcERTUM (un- 
certain), which is the antient mode. ‘The reticulatum is 
the most beautiful, but is very liable to split, from the 
beds of the stones being unstable, and its deficiency in re- 
spect of bond. The incertum, on the contrary, course over 
course, and the whole bonded together, does not present 
so beautiful an appearance, though stronger than the reti- 
culatum. Both species should be built of the smallest sized 
stones, that the walls, by sucking up, and attaching them- 
selves to, the mortar, may last the longer. For as the stones 
are of a soft and porous nature, they absorb, in drying, the 
moisture of the mortar, and this, if used plentifully, 
will consequently exercise a greater cementing power ; 
because from their containing a larger portion of moisture, 
the wall will not, of course, dry so soon as otherwise ; and 
as soon as the moisture is absorbed by the pores of the 
stone from the mortar, the lime, losing its power, leaves 
the sand, so that the stones no longer adhere to it, and in 
a short time the work becomes unsound. We may see 
this in several monuments about the city, which have 
been built of marble or of stones squared externally ; that 
is, on the face, but filled up with rubble run with mortar. 
Time, in these, has taken up the moisture of the mortar, 
and destroyed its efficacy, by the porosity of the surface 
on which it acted. All cohesion is thus ruined, and the 
walls fall to decay. He who is desirous that this may 


97 


not happen to his work, should build his two face walls 
two feet thick either of red stone or of brick or common 
flint, binding them together with iron cramps run with 
lead, and duly preserving the middle space or cavity. 
The materials, in this case, not being thrown in at ran- 
dom, but the work well brought up on the beds, the up- 
right joints properly arranged, and the face walls, more- 
over, regularly tied together, they are not liable to bulge, 
nor be otherwise disfigured. In these respects one can- 
not refrain from admiring the walls of the Greeks. They 
make no use of soft stone in their buildings: when, 
however, they do not employ squared stone, they use 
either flint or hard stone; and, as though building with 





hick, they crow or break. the upright joints end thu —_/\ / in 
produce the most durable work. There are two sorts of ica A V y ‘\ 


this species of work; one called 1sopomum, the other 
PsEUDIsopDOMUM. ‘The first is so called, because in it 
all the courses are of an equal height; the latter received 
its name from the unequal heights of the courses. Both 
these nto make sound work: first, because the 
stones are hard and solid, and therefore unable to absorb 
the moisture of the mortar, which is thus preserved to the _—'\ 
lon eriod; secondly, because the beds being smooth 
and level, the mortar does not escape; and the wall 
moreover, bonded throughout its whole thickness, be- 
comes eternal. There is still another method, which is 
called ¢umexrov (EMPLECTUM), in use even among our 
country workmen. In this species the faces are wrought. 
The other stones are, without working, deposited in the 
cavity between the two faces, and bedded in mortar as 
the wall is carried up. But the workmen, for the sake 
of despatch, carry up these casing walls, and then tumble 
I 





wa 


\ 

\ ‘i 
\ \ 
\. } Y 


58 


in the rubble between them; so that there are thus three 
distinct thicknesses; namely, the two sides or facings, 
and the filling in. The Greeks, however, pursue a dif- 
ferent course, laying the stones flat, and breaking the 
vertical joints; neither do they fill in the middle at ran- 
dom, but, by means of bond stones, make the wall solid, 
and of one thickness or piece. ‘They moreover cross the 
wall, from one face to the other, with bond stones of a 
single piece, which they call dsarévos, (p1aATONT) tending 
greatly to strengthen the work. He, therefore, who is de- 
sirous of producing a lasting structure, is enabled, by what 
I have laid down, to choose the sort of wall that will suit 
his purpose. Those walls which are built of soft and 
smooth-looking stone, will not last long. Hence, when va- 
luations are made of external walls, we must not put them 
at their original cost ; but having found, from the regis- 
ter, the number of lettings they have gone through, we 
must deduct for every year of their age an eightieth part 
of such cost, and set down the remainder or balance as 
their value, inasmuch as they are not calculated to last 
more than eighty years. ‘This is not the practice in the 
case of brick walls, which, whilst they stand upright, are 
always valued at their first cost. Hencé, in some states, 





not only public and private buildings, but even royal 
structures, are built of brick. We may instance that 
part of the -wall at Athens towards Mounts Hymettus 
and Pentelicus, the temples of Jupiter and Hercules, in 
which the cells are of brick, whilst the columns and their 
entablatures are of stone, in Italy the antient and exqui- 
sitely wrought wall of Arezzo, and at Tralles a palace for 
the Attalic kings, which is the official residence of the 
priest. Some pictures painted on brick walls at Sparta, 


59 


after being cut out, were packed up in wooden cases 
and transported to the Comitium to grace the Aédileship 
of Varro and Murena. In the house of Croesus, which 
the Sardians call Gerusia, established for the repose and 
comfort of the citizens in their old age, as also in the 
house of Mausolus, a very powerful king of Halicarnas- 
sus, though all the ornaments are of Proconnesian mar- 
ble, the walls are of brick, are remarkably sound at the 
present day, and the plastering with which they are co- 
vered is so polished that they sparkle like glass. ‘The 
prince who caused them to be thus built was not, how- 
ever, restrained by economy; for, as king of Caria, he 
must have been exceedingly rich. Neither could it be 
urged that it was from want of skill and taste in archi- 
tecture, that he did so. Born at Mylasa, and perceiv- 
ing that Halicarnassus was a situation fortified by nature, 
and a place well adapted for commerce, with a commo- 
dious harbour, he fixed his residence there. The site of 
the city bears a resemblance to a theatre, as to general 
form. In the lowest part of it, near the harbour, a forum 
was built : up the hill, about the middle of the curve, was 
a large square in the centre of which stood the mauso- 
leum, a work of such grandeur that it was accounted 
one of the seven wonders of the world. In the centre, 
on the summit of the hill, was the temple of Mars, with 
its colossal statue, which is called azgoAsog, sculptured 
by the eminent hand of Leocharis, Some, however, at- 
tribute this statue to Leocharis; others to Timotheus, 
On the right, at the extreme point of the curve, was the 
temple of Venus and Mercury, close to the fountain of 
Salmacis. It is a vulgar error, that those who happen to 
drink thereat are affected with love-sickness. As, how- 


60 


ever, this error is general, it will not be amiss to correct 
the impression. It is not only impossible that the water 
should have the effect of rendering men effeminate and 
unchaste ; but, on the contrary, that alluded to is clear as 
crystal, and of the finest flavour. The origin of the 
story, by which it gained the reputation of the above 
quality, is as follows. When Melas and Arevanias 
brought to the place a colony from Argos and Troezene, 
they drove out the barbarous Carians and Lelege. 
These, betaking themselves to the mountains in bodies, 
committed great depredations, and laid waste the neigh- 
bourhood. Some time afterwards, one of the colonists, 
for the sake of the profit likely to arise from it, established 
close to the fountain, on account of the excellence 
of its water, a store where he kept all sorts of merchan- 
dize ; and thus it became a place of great resort of the 
barbarians who were drawn thither. Coming, at first, in 
small, and at last in large, numbers, the barbarians by de- 
grees shook off their savage and uncivilized habits, and 
changed them, without coercion, for those of the Greeks. 
The fame, therefore, of this fountain, was acquired, not by 
the effeminacy which it is reputed to impart, but by its 
being the means through which the minds of the barbari- 
ans were civilized. I must now, however, proceed to finish 
_ my description of the city. On the right summit we have 
described the temple of Venus and the above-named 
fountain to have been placed : on the left stood the royal 
palace, which was planned by Mausolus himself. This 
commanded, on the right, a view of the forum and _har- 
bour, and of the whole circuit of the walls: on the left, it 
overlooked a secret harbour, hidden by the mountains, 
into which no one could pry, so as to be aware of what 


61 


was transacting therein. In short, from his palace, the 
king, without any person being aware of it, could give 
the necessary orders to his soldiers and sailors. After 
the death of Mausolus, the Rhodians, indignant at his 
wife, who succeeded to the government, governing 
the whole of Caria, fitted out a fleet, for the purpose of 
seizing the kingdom. When the news reached Artemisia, 
she commanded her fleet to lie still in the secret harbour ; 
and having concealed the sailors and mustered the ma- 
rines, ordered the rest of the citizens to the walls. When 
the well appointed squadron of the Rhodians should enter 
the large harbour, she gave orders that those stationed on 
the walls should greet them, and promise to deliver up the 
town. The Rhodians, leaving their ships, penetrated into 
the town; at which period Artemisia, by the sudden open- 
ing of acanal, brought her fleetround, through the open sea, 
into thelarge harbour; whence the Rhodian fleet, abandon- 
ed by its sailors and marines, was easily carried out to sea. 
The Rhodians, having now no place of shelter, were sur- 
rounded in the forum and slain. Artemisia then embarking 
her own sailors and marines on board of the Rhodian fleet, 
set sail for Rhodes. The inhabitants of that city seeing 
their. vessels return decorated with laurels, thought their 
fellow citizens were returning victorious, and received 
their enemies. Artemisia having thus taken Rhodes, 
and slain the principal persons of the city, raised therein 
a trophy of her victory. It consisted of two brazen sta- 
tues, one of which represented the state of Rhodes, the 
other was a statue of herself imposing a mark of infamy 
on the city. As it was contrary to the precepts of the 
religion of the Rhodians to remove a trophy, they en- 
circled the latter with a building, and covered it after 


4 
V\ /\ 


62 56 


the custom of the Greeks, giving it the name #Barov. If 
therefore, kings of such great power did not despise brick 
buildings, those who, from their great revenue and spoils 
in war, can afford the expence not only of squared and 
rough stone, but even of marble buildings, must not 
despise brick structures when well executed. I shall 
now explain why this species of walls is not permitted in 
the city of Rome, and also why such walls ought not to 
be permitted. The public laws forbid a greater thick- 
ness than one foot and a half to be given to walls that 
abut on a public way, and the other walls, to prevent 
loss of room, are not built thicker. “Now brick walls, 
unless of the thickness of two or three bricks, at all 
events of at least one foot and a half, are not fit to carry 
more than one floor, so that from the great population of 
Terre 
the city innumerable houses would be required. Since, 
therefore, the area it occupies would not in such case con- 
tain the number to be accommodated, it became abso- 
lutely necessary to gain in height that which could not be 
obtained on the plan. ‘Thus by means of stone piers or 
walls of burnt bricks or unsquared stones, which were 
tied together by the timbers of the several floors, they 
obtained in the upper story excellent dining rooms. The 
Roman people by thus multiplying the number of stories 
in their houses are commodiously lodged. Having ex- 
plained why, on account of the narrowness of the streets 
in Rome, walls of brick are not allowed in the city, I shall 
now give instructions for their use out of the city when 
required, to the end that they may be durable. On the 
top of a wall immediately under the roof, there should bea 
course of burnt bricks, about one foot and a half in height, 
and projecting over the walls like the corona of a cornice ; 








63 


thus the injury to be guarded against in such a wall, will be 
prevented ; for if any tiles should be accidentally broken 
or dislodged by the wind, so as to afford a passage for the 
rain, the burnt brick, a protection to it, will secure the 
wall itself from damage, and the projection will cause the 
dropping of the water to fall beyond the face of the wall 
and thus preserve it. To judge of such burnt bricks as__ 


____ are fit for the purpose is not at first an easy matter ; the 
only way of ascertaining their goodness is to try them 
through a summer and winter, and, if they bear out 
through these undamaged, they may be used. Those 


which are no ood clay ar injured by the 











frost and rain; hence if unfit to be used in roofs they will 
be more unfit in walls. Walls built of old tiles are conse- 
quently very lasting. As to wattled walls, would they had 
never been invented, for though convenient and expedi- 
tiously made, they are conducive to great calamity from 
their acting almost like torches in case of fire. It is much 
better, therefore, in the first instance, to be at the expense 
of burnt bricks, than from parsimony to be in perpetual 
risk. Walls moreover, of this sort, that are covered with 
plaster are always full of cracks, arising from the crossing 
of the laths; for when the plastering is laid on wet, it swells 
the wood, which contracts as the work dries, breaking the 








plastering. But if expedition; or want of funds, drives 
us to the use of this sort of work, or as an expedient to 
bring work to asquare form, let it be executed as follows. 
The surface of the foundation whereon it is to stand must 
be somewhat raised from the ground or pavement. 
Should it ever be placed below them it will rot, settle, and 
bend forward, whereby the face of the plastering will be 
injured, I have already treated on walls, and generally 


64, 


on the mode of preparing and selecting the materials for 
them. I shall now proceed to the use of timber in fram- 
ing, and to a description of its several sorts, as also of the 
mode of fitting timbers together, so.that they may be as. 
durable as their nature will permit. 


CHAPTER IX. 


OF TIMBER. 


Timser should be felled from the beginning of the Au- 
tumn up to that time when the west wind begins to blow ; 
never in the Spring, because at that period the trees are 
as it were pregnant, and communicate their natural 
strength to the yearly leaves and fruits they shoot forth. 
Being empty and swe , they become, 

great porosity, useless and feeble, just as we see females 
after conception in indifferent health till the period of . 
their bringing forth. Hence slaves about to be sold 
are not warranted sound if they be pregnant; for the 
foetus which goes on increasing in size within the. body, 
derives nourishment from all the food which the parent 
consumes, and as the time of delivery approaches, the 
more unwell is the party by whom it is borne: as soon 
as the foetus is brought forth, that which was before 
allotted for the nourishment of another being, once more 
free by the separation of the foetus, returns to reinvigo- 
rate the body by the juices flowing to the large and empty 
vessels, and to enable it to regain its former natural 
strength and solidity. So, in the Autumn, the fruits 
being ripened and the leaves dry, the roots draw the 
moisture from the earth, and the trees are by those means 
__recovered and restored to their pristi idit 

the time above-mentioned the force of the wintry air 
compresses and consolidates the timber, and if it be then 
felled the period will be seasonable. In felling, the pro- 
per way is to cut through at once to the middle of the 

K 


66 


trunk of the tree, and then leave it for some time, that the 


\ juices may drain off; thus the useless liquor contained 


\ in the tree, running away through its external rings, all 
V\_tendeney to decay is removed, and it is preserved sound. _ 
After the tree has dried and the draining has ceased, it may 
be cut down and considered quite fit for use. That this 
should be the method pursued, will appear from the na- 
ture of shrubs. These, at the proper season, when pierced 
at the bottom, discharge from the heart through the holes 

Tae _made in them all the redundant _and_pernicious juices, _ 
“and thus drying acquire strength and durability. On 
the contrary, when those juices do not escape, they con- 
geal and render the tree defective and good for nothing. 
If, therefore, this process of draining them whilst in their 
growing state does not destroy their vigour, so much the 
more if the same rules are observed when they are about 
to be felled, will they last for a longer period when con- 
verted into timber for buildings. ‘The qualities of trees 
vary exceedingly, and are very dissimilar, as those of the 
oak, the elm, the poplar, the cypress, the fir, and others 
chiefly used in buildings. The oak, for instance, is useful 
where the fir would be improper ; and so with respect to 
the cypress and the elm. Nor do the others differ less 
widely, each, from the different nature of its elements, 
being differently suited to similar applications in build- 
ing. First, the fir, containing a considerable quantity of 


ee 


2 oars air_and_fire,and_very little-water-and_earth, being con con- 
stituted of such light elements, is not_heavy: hence 


bound together by its natural hardness it does not easily 
bend, but keeps its shape in framing. The objection 
to fir is, that it contains so much heat as to genera 


..__and nourish the worm which is very destructive to it. 


inn eaersneee sirens 














67 


It is moreover very inflammable, because its open 
ores are so quickly penetrated_b at it yields 
great flame. The lower part of the fir which is close 
“to the earth, receiving by its proximity to the roots, a , 
large portion of moisture, is previous to felling straight 
and free from knots; the upper part, throwing out 

by the fire it _contai 

branches thr hen cut off at the height of 
twenty feet and rough squared, is, from its hardness, 
called Fusterna. The lower part, when cut down, is sawed 
into four quarters, and after the outer rings of the tree 
are rejected, is well adapted to joinery works, and is 


called Sapinea. The oak, however, containing among— 
its other elements 8 great _porsion of cart ane 
_ small quantity of water, air, and _fire;-when—-1sed—under— 
~ground i is of great durability, for its pores being close and 
compact, the wet does not penetrate it; in short its anti- 
pathy to water is so great that, it twists and splits very 
much the work in which it is used. The holm oak 
(esculus), whose elements are in very equal proportions, 
is of great use in buildings ; it will not however stand the 
damp which quickly penetrates its pores, and its air and 
—_fire being driven off, it soon rots. The green oak (cerrus), 
the cork tree, and the beech soon rot, because they con- 
tain equal quantities of water, fire, and earth, which are by 
no means capable of balancing the great quantity of air 
they contain. The white and black poplar, the willow, the 
lime tree (tilia), the withy (vitex), are of great service 
in particular works on account of their hardness. They 
contain but a small portion of earth, a moderate propor- 
tion of water, but abound with fire and air. Though not 
hard on account of the earth in them, they are very white, 





68 


and excellently adapted for carving. The alder, which 
grows on the banks of rivers, and is to appearance an al- 
most useless wood, possesses nevertheless most excellent 
qualities, inasmuch as it contains much air and fire, not a 
great deal of earth, and less water. Its freeness from 
water makes it almost eternal in marshy foundations used 
for piling under buildings, because, in these situations, 
it receives that moisture which it does not possess na- 
turally. It bears immense weights and does not decay. 
Thus we see that timber which above ground soon 
decays, lasts an amazing time in a damp soil. This is 
most evident at Ravenna, a city, the foundations of 
whose buildings, both public and private, are all built 
upon piles. The elm tree and the ash contain much 
water and but little air and fire, with a moderate por- 
tion of earth. They are therefore pliant, and being 
so full of water, and from want of stiffness, soon bend 
under a superincumbent weight. When, however, 
from proper keeping after being felled, or from being 
well dried while standing to discharge their natural 
moisture, they become much harder, and in framings are, 
from their pliability, capable of forming sound work. 
The maple tree, which contains but little fire and earth, 
and a considerable portion of air and water, is not easily 
broken, and is, moreover, easily wrought. ‘The Greeks, 
therefore, who made yokes for oxen (called by them Zuye) 
of this timber, call the tree @uyeia. The cypress and 
pine are also singular in their nature ; for though they 
contain equal portions of the other elements, yet, from 
their large proportion of water, they are apt to bend in 
use; they last, however, a long time, free from decay ; 
the reason whereof is, that they contain a bitter juice, 


69 


whose acrid properties prevent the rot, and are not less 
efficacious in destroying the worm. Buildings, in which 
these sorts of timber are used, last an amazing number of 
years. The cedar and juniper trees possess the same 
qualities as the two last named ; but as the cypress and 
pine yield a resin, so the cedar tree yields an oil called 
cedrium, with which, whatsoever is rubbed, as books, for 
instance, will be preserved from the worm as well as the 
rot. The leaves of this tree resemble those of the cy- 
press, and its fibres are very straight. ‘The statue of the 
goddess, as also the ceiled roof in the temple of Diana at 
Ephesus, are made of it; and it is used in many other 
celebrated temples, on account of its great durability. 
These trees grow chiefly in the island of Crete, in Africa, 
and in some parts of Syria. The larch, which is only 
known in the districts on the banks of the Po and the 
shores of the Adriatic, on account of the extreme bit- 
terness of its juices, is not subject to rot and attack of 
the worm, neither will it take fire or burn of itself, but 
can only be consumed with other wood, as stone is burnt 
for lime in a furnace; nor even then does it emit flame 
nor yield charcoal, but, after a long time, gradually con- 
sumes away, from the circumstance of its containing very 
little fire and air. It is, on the contrary, full of water 
and earth ; and being free from pores, by which the fire 
could penetrate, it repels its power, so that it is not 
quickly hurt thereby. Its weight is so great, that it will 
not float in water, when transported to any place, and is 
either conveyed in vessels, or floated on fir rafts. This 
property of the wood was discovered under the following 
circumstances. Julius Cesar, being with his army near 
the Alps, ordered the towns to supply him with provi- 


70 


sions. Among them was a fortress called Larignum, 
whose inhabitants, trusting to their fortifications, refused 
to obey the mandate. Czesar ordered his forces to the 
spot immediately. In front of the gate of this fortress 
stood a tower built of this species of timber, of consider- 
able height, and constructed after the manner of a funeral 
pile, with beams alternately crossing each other at their 
extremities, so that the besieged might, from its top, an- 
noy the besiegers with darts and stones. It appearing 
that the persons on the tower had no other arms than 
darts, which, from their weight, could not be hurled any 
great distance from the walls, orders were given to con- 
vey bundles of fire-wood and torches to the tower, which 
were quickly executed by the soldiers. As soon as the 
flames, reaching almost to the heavens, began to en- 
compass the tower, every one expected to see its demoli- 
tion. But as soon as the fire was extinct, the tower ap- 
peared still unhurt; and Cesar, wondering at the cause 
of it, ordered it to be blockaded out of arrow’s flight, 
and thus carried the town, which was delivered up to him 
by its trembling inhabitants. They were then asked 
where they obtained this sort of wood, which would not 
burn. ‘They shewed him the trees, which are in great 
abundance in those parts. Thus, as the fortress was 
called Larignum, so the wood, whereof the tower was 
built, is called larigna (larch). It is brought down the 
Po to Ravenna, for the use of the municipalities of Fano, 
Pesaro, Ancona, and the other cities in that district. If 
there were a possibility of transporting it to Rome, it would 
be very useful in the buildings there ; if not generally, at 
least it would be excellent for the plates under the eaves of 
those houses in Rome which are insulated, as they would be 


71 


thus secured from catching fire, since they would neither 
ignite nor consume, nor burn into charcoal. The leaves 
of these trees are similar to those of the pirie-tree; the 
fibres of them straight, and not harder to work in joinery 
than the pine-tree. The wood contains a liquid resin, of 
the colour of Attic honey, which is a good remedy in 
cases of phthisis. I have now treated of the different 
sorts of timber, and of their natural properties, as 
_____of the proportion of the elements in each. It only re- 








mains to enquire, why that species of fir, which is known 
in Rome by the name of Supernas, is not so good 
as that which is called Infernas, whose durability in — 
buildings is so great. I shall therefore explain how their 
good and bad qualities arise from the situations in which 
they grow, that they may be clearly understood. 


72 


CHAPTER X. 


OF THE FIRS CALLED SUPERNAS AND INFERNAS, 
AND OF THE APENNINES. 


Tue Apennines begin from the Tyrrhene Sea, extending 
to the Alps on one side, and the borders of Tuscany on 
the other; and their summits spreading in the shape of a 
bow, almost touch the shores of the Adriatic in the cen- 
tre of their range, which ends near the Straits of Sicily. 
The hither side of them towards Tuscany and Campania, 
is in point of climate extremely mild, being continually 
warmed by the sun’s rays. The further side, which lies to- 
wards the upper sea, isexposed to the north, and is enclosed 
by thick and gloomy shadow. The trees, therefore, 
which grow in that part being nourished by continual 
moisture, not only grow to a great size, but their fibres 
being too much saturated with it, swell out considerably. 
When hewn, therefore, and squared, and deprived of 
their natural vegetation, they change in drying the hard- 
‘ness of the grain, and become weak and apt to decay, on 
account of the openness of their pores. They are, there- 
fore, of little durability in buildings. On the contrary, 
those which grow on the side opposite to the sun, not 
being so porous, harden in drying, because the sun draws 
the moisture from trees no less than from the earth. 
Hence, those which grow in open sunny places, are more 
solid, on account of the closeness of their pores, and 
when squared for use, are exceedingly lasting. The fir, 
which goes by the name of Infernas, brought from the 
warm open parts, is therefore preferable to the sort called 


* 


73 


Supernas, which comes from a closely and thickly wooded 
country. To the best of my ability I have treated on the 
materials necessary for building, and their natural tem- 





peraments in respect of the different proportions of the 





elements which they contain, as well as on their good and 





bad qualities, in order that those who build may be well 
informed thereon. Those who follow my directions, and 
choose a proper material for the purpose whereto it is ap- 
plied, will do right. Having thus considered the prepa- 
rations to be made, we shall proceed, in the following 
books, to the consideration of buildings themselves, and 
first, to that of the temples of the immortal gods, and 
their symmetry and proportions as the importance of the 
subject requires, which will form the subject of the fol- 
lowing book. 





























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THE 
ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE THIRD. 


ATHENS 























INTRODUCTION. 


Tue Delphic Apollo, by the answer of his priestess, de- 
clared Socrates the wisest of men. Of him it is said he 
sagaciously observed that it had been well.if men’s 
breasts were open, and, as it were, with windows in them, 
so that every one might be acquainted with their senti- 
ments. Would to God they had been so formed. We 
might then not only find out the virtues and vices of per- 
sons with facility, but, being also enabled to obtain ocular 


76 


knowledge of the science they profess, we might judge 
of their skill with certainty; whereby those who are 
really clever and learned would be held in proper esteem. 
But as nature has not formed us after this fashion, the ta- 
lents of many men lie concealed within them, and this 
renders it so difficult to lay down an accurate theory of 
any art. However an artist may promise to exert his ta- 
~~ ——~Tents, if he have not either plenty of money, or a good 
connexion from his situation in life; or if he be not 
gifted with a good address or considerable eloquence, his 
study and application will go but little way to persuade 
persons that he is a competent artist. We find a corro- 
boration of this by reference to the ancient Sculptors and 
Painters, among whom, those who obtained the greatest 
fame and applause are still living in the remembrance of 
posterity ; such, for instance, as Myron, Polycletus, Phi- 
dias, Lysippus, and others who obtained celebrity in their 
art. This arose from their being employed by great 
cities, by kings, or by wealthy citizens. Now others, who, 
not less studious of their art, nor less endued with great 
genius and skill, did not enjoy equal fame, because 
employed by persons of lower rank and of slenderer 
means, and not from their unskilfulness, seem to have 
been deserted by fortune; such were Hellas the Athenian, 
Chion of Corinth, Myagrus the Phocean, Pharax the 
Ephesian, Bedas of Byzantium, and many more; among 
the Painters, Aristomenes of Thasos, Polycles of Adra- 
myttium, Nicomachus and others, who were wanting nei- 
ther in industry, study of their art, nor talent. But their 
poverty, the waywardness of fortune, or their ill success 
in competition with others, prevented their advancement. 
Nor can we wonder that from the ignorance of the public 


77 


in respect of art many skilful artists remain in obscu- 
rity; but it is scandalous that friendship and connexion 
should lead men, for their sake, to give partial and un- 
true opinions. If, as Socrates would have had it, every 
one’s feelings, opinions, and information in science could 
be open to view, neither favor nor ambition would prevail, 
but those, who by study and great learning acquire the 
greatest knowledge, would be eagerly sought. after. 
' Matters are.not however in this state as they ought to 
be, the ignorant rather than the learned being successful, 
and as it is never worth while to dispute with an ignorant 
man, I. propose to shew in these precepts the excellence 
of the science I profess. : In the first book, O Emperor, 
I laid before you an explanation of the art, its requisites, 
and the learning an architect should possess, and I 
added the reasons why he should possess them. I also 
divided it into different branches and defined them : then, 
because chiefest and most necessary, I have explained 
the proper method of setting out the walls of a city, and 
obtaining a healthy site for it, and have exhibited in dia- 
grams, the winds, and quarters whence they blow. I have 
shewn the best. methods of laying out the streets and 
lanes, and thus completed the first book. In the second 
book I have analysed the nature and qualities of the ma- 
terials used in building, and adverted to the purposes to 
which they are best adapted. In this third book I shall 
speak of the sacred temples of the immortal gods, and 
explain them particularly. 


78 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE DESIGN AND SYMMETRY OF TEMPLES. 


—~—____ Tue design of Temples Sepeads on symmetry, the rules 
be most careful to observe. 
_ Symmetry arises from proportion, which the Greeks call 
everoyiec. Proportion is a due adjustment of the size 
of the different parts to each other and to the whole; on 
this proper adjustment symmetry depends. Hence no 
building can be said to be well designed which wants 
symmetry and proportion. In truth they are as neces- 
sary to the beauty of a building as to that of a well 
formed human figure, which nature has so fashioned, that 
in the face, from the chin to the top of the forehead, 
or to the roots of the hair, is a tenth part of the height 
of the whole body. From the chin to the crown of the 
head is an eighth part of the whole height, and from the 
nape of the neck to the crown of the head the same. 
From the upper part of the breast to the roots of the 
hair a sixth; to the crown of the head a fourth. A third 
part of the height of the face is equal to that from the 
chin to the under side of the nostrils, and thence to the 
‘middle of the eyebrows the same; from the last to the 
roots of the hair, where the forehead ends, the remaining 
third part. The length of the foot is a sixth part of the 
height of the body. The fore-arm a fourth part. The 
width of the breast a fourth part. Similarly have the 
other members their due proportions, by attention to 


which the anci inters and Sculptors obtained ch_ 
reputation. Just so the parts o should corre- 





79 


spond with each other, and with the whole. The navel 
is naturally placed in the centre of the human body, and, 
if in a man lying with his face upward, and his hands and 
feet extended, from his navel as the centre, a circle be 
described, it will touch his fingers ard toes. It is not 
alone by a circle, that the human body is thus circum- 
scribed, as may be seen by placing it within a square. For 
measuring from the feet to the crown of the head, and 
then across the arms fully extended, we find the latter 
measure equal to the former; so that lines at right an- 
gles to each other, enclosing the figure, will form a 


square. If Nature, therefore, has made the human body’ 


so that the different members of it are measures of the 
whole, so the ancients have, with great propriety, deter- 
mined that in all perfect works, each part should be some 
aliquot part of the whole ; and since they direct, that this 
be observed in all works, it must be most strictly attend- 
ed to in temples of the gods, wherein the faults as well as 
the beauties remain to the end of time. It is worthy of 
remark, that the measures necessarily used in all buildings 
and other works, are derived from the members of the 
human body, as the digit, the palm, the foot, the cubit, 





and that these form _a perfect number, called by the 





Greek réAeios. The ancients considered ten a perfect 
number, because the fingers are ten in number, and the 
palm is derived from them, and from the palm is derived 
the foot. Plato, therefore, called ten a perfect number, 
Nature having formed the hands with ten fingers, and also 
because it is composed of units called wovddes in Greek, 
which also advancing beyond ten, as to eleven, twelve, 
&c. cannot be perfect until another ten are included, 
units being the parts whereof such numbers are composed. 








Lee 


so 


The mathematicians, on the other hand, contend for the 
perfection of the number six, because, according to their 
reasoning, its divisors equal its number: for a sixth part _ 
is one, a third two, a half three, two-thirds four, which 
they call dsnoeos; the fifth in order, which they call 
xevra201006, five, and then the perfect number six. When 
it advances beyond that, a sixth being added, which is 
called @pexros, we have the number seven. - Eight are 
formed by adding a third, called triens, and by the Greeks, 
éxizeiros. Nine are formed by the addition of a half, and 
thence called sesquialteral ; by the Greeks 7ps0Asos 5 if 
we add the two aliquot parts of it, which form ten, it is 
called bes alterus, or in Greek éaid/woigos. The number 
eleven, being compounded of the original number, and 
the fifth in order is called éxmevrepoios. ‘The number 
twelve, being the sum of the two simple numbers, is called 
O:mhaciwv. Moreover, as the foot is the sixth part of a man’s 
height, they contend, that this number, namely six, the 
umber of feet in height, is perfect : the cubit, also, being 
_Tsixpalna, conssaueetie- canteer-of twenty-four igi 
Hence the states of Greece appear to have divided the 
drachma, like the cubit, that is into six parts, which were 
small equal sized pieces of brass, similar to the asses, which 
they called oboli; and, in imitation of the twenty-four 
digits, they divided the obolus into four parts, which some 
call dichalca, others trichalea. Our ancestors, however, 
were better pleased with the number ten, and hence made 
the denarius to consist of ten brass asses, and the money 
to this day retains the name of denarius. The sester- 
tius, a fourth part of a denarius, was so called, because 
composed of two asses, and the half of another. . Thus 
finding the numbers six and ten perfect, they added them 











81 


together, and formed sixteen, a still more perfect num- 
ber. The foot measure gave rise to this, for subtracting 
two palms from the cubit, four remain, which is the 
length of a foot; and as each palm contains four digits, 
the foot will consequently contain sixteen, so the dena- 
rius was made to contain an equal number of asses. If it 
therefore appear, that numbers had their origin from the 
human body, and proportion is the result of a due adjust- 
ment of the different parts to each other, and to the 
whole, they are especially to be commended, who, in 
designing temples to the gods, so arrange the parts 
that the whole may harmonize in their proportions and 
“symmetry. The principles of temples are distinguished 
by their different forms. First, that known by the appella- 
’ tion rv antis, which the Greeks call vadg ty raguoréct ; 
then the PROSTYLOS, PERIPTEROS, PSEUDODIPTEROS, DIPTE- 
ros, HyPzTHROS. Their difference is as follows. A tem- 
ple is called iv antis, when it has ante or pilasters in 
front of the walls which enclose the cell, with two columns 
between the ante, and crowned with a pediment, propor- 
tioned as we shall hereafter direct. There is an exam- 
ple of this species of temple, in that of the three dedi- 
cated to-Fortune, near the Porta Collina. The prostyLos 
temple is similar, except that it has columns instead of 
ante in front, which are placed opposite to ants at the 
angles of the cell, and support the entablature, which re- 
turns on each side as in those in antis. An example of 
the prostylos exists in the temple of Jupiter and Faunus, 
in the island of the Tyber. The ampurprostyLos is si- 
milar to the prostylos, but with this addition, that the 
columns and pediment in the front are repeated in the 
rear of the temple. The rertpreros has six columns 
M 


accel 





82 


in the front and rear, and eleven on the flanks, count- 
ing in the two columns at the angles, and these eleven 
are so placed that their distance from the wall is equal 
to an intercolumniation, or space between the columns 
all round, and thus is formed a walk around the cell of 
the temple, such as may be seen in the portico of the thea- 
tre of Metellus, in that of Jupiter Stator, by Hermodus, 
and. in the temple of Honour and Virtue without a pos- 
ticum designed by Mutius, near the trophy of Marius. 
The pseupopirTeEros is constructed with eight columns 
in front and rear, and with fifteen on the sides, including 
those at the angles. The walls of the cell are opposite 
to the four middle columns of the front and of the rear. 
Hence from the walls to the front of the lower part of 
the columns, there will be an interval equal to two inter- 
columniations and the thickness of a column all round. 
No example of such a temple is to be found in Rome, 
but of this sort was the temple of Diana, in Magnesia, 
built by Hermogenes of Alabanda, and that of Apollo, 
by Menesthes. The pipreros is octastylos like the former, 
and with a pronaos and posticum, but all round the cell 
are two ranks of columns. Such are the Doric temple 
of Quirinus, and the temple of Diana at Ephesus, built 
by Ctesiphon. The nypxturos is decastylos, in the pro- 
naos and posticum. In other respects it is similar to the 
dipteros, except that in the inside it has two stories of 
columns all round, at some distance from the walls, after 
the manner of the peristylia of porticos. The middle 
of the interior part of the temple is open to the sky, and 
it is entered by two doors, one in front and the other in 
the rear. Of this sort there is no example at Rome, 
there is, however, an octastyle specimen of it at Athens, 

the temple of Jupiter Olympius. 


83 


CHAPTER II. 
OF THE FIVE SPECIES OF TEMPLES. 


Tuere are five species of temples, whose names are, pyc- 
NostTyLos, that is, thick set with columns: sysTyLos, 
in which the columns are not so close: p1asryLos, where 
they are still wider apart: araosryLos, when placed 
more distant from each other than in fact they ought to 
be: EusTyLos, when the intercolumniation, or space be- 
tween the columns, is of the best proportion. Pycnosry- 
Los, is that arrangement wherein the columns are only 
once and a half their thickness apart, as in the tem- 
ple of the god Julius, in that of Venus in the forum of 
Cesar, and in other similar buildings. Systryzos, is the 
distribution of columns with an intercolumniation of two 
diameters: the distance between their plinths is then 
equal to their front faces. Examples of it are to be seen 
in the temple of Fortuna Equestris, near the stone theatre, 
and in other places. This, no less than the former 
arrangement, is faulty ; because matrons, ascending the 
steps to supplicate the deity, cannot pass the intercolum- 
niations arm in arm, but are obliged to enter after each 
other; the doors are also hidden, by the closeness of 
the columns, and the statues are too much in shadow. 
The passages moreover round the temple are inconvenient 
for walking. Drasrytos has intercolumniations of three 
diameters, as in the temple of Apollo and Diana. The 
inconvenience of this species is, that the epistylia or 
architraves over the columns frequently fail, from their 
bearings being too long. In the arzostytos the archi- 


84 


traves are of wood, and not of stone or marble; the 
different species of temples of this sort are clumsy, heavy 
roofed, low and wide, and their pediments are usually or-_ 
namented with statues of clay or brass, gilt in the Tuscan 
fashion. Of this species is the temple of Ceres, near the 
Circus Maximus, that of Hercules, erected by Pompey, 
and that of Jupiter Capitolinus. We now proceed to the 
EUSTYLOS, which is preferable, as well in respect of conve- 
nience, as of beauty and strength. Its intercolumnia- 
tions are of two diameters and a quarter. The centre in- 
tercolumniation, in front and in the posticum, is three 
diameters. It has not only a beautiful effect, but is con- 
venient, from the unobstructed passage it affords to the 
door of the temple, and the great room allowed for walk- 
ing round the cell. The rule for designing it is as follows. 
The extent of the front being given, it is, if tetrastylos, to 
be divided into eleven parts and a half, not including the 
projections of the base and plinth at each end: if hexa- 
stylos, into eighteen parts: if octastylos, into twenty- 
four parts and a half. One of either of these parts, ac- 
cording to the case, whether tetrastylos, hexastylos, or 
octastylos, will be a measure equal to the diameter of 
one of the columns. Each intercolumniation, except the 
middle one, front and rear, will be equal to two of these 
measures and one quarter, and the middle intercolum- 
niation three. The heights of the columns will be eight 
parts and a half. Thus the intercolumniations and the 
heights of the columns will have proper proportions. 
There is no example of eustylos in Rome; but there 
is one at Teos in Asia, which is octastylos, and dedicated 
to Bacchus. Its proportions were discovered by Hermo- 
genes, who was also the inventor of the octastylos or 


85 


pseudodipteral formation. It was he who first omitted 
the inner ranges of columns in the dipteros, which, being 
in number thirty-eight, afforded the opportunity of avoid- 
ing considerable expense. By it a great space was obtained 
for walking all round the cell, and the effect of the tem- 
ple was not injured because the omission of the columns 
was not perceptible ; neither was the grandeur of the work 
destroyed. The pteromata, or wings, and the disposition 
of columns about a temple, were contrived for the pur- 
pose of increasing the effect, by the varied appearance of 
the returning columns, as seen through the front inter- 
columniations, and also for providing plenty of room for 
the numbers frequently detained by rain, so that they 
might walk about, under shelter, round the cell. I have 
been thus particular on the pseudodipteros, because it dis- 
plays the skill and ingenuity with which Hermogenes de- 

signed those his works; which cannot but be acknow- 

ledged as the sources whence his successors have derived 

their best principles. In areeostyle temples the diameter 

of the columns must be an eighth part of their height. : 
In diastylos, the height of the columns is to be divided 
into eight parts and a half; one of which is to be taken 
for the diameter of the column. In systylos, let the 
height be divided into nine parts and a half; one of those 
parts will be the diameter of a column. In pycnostylos, 
one-tenth part of the height is the diameter of the co- 
lumns. In the eustylos, as well as in the diastylos, the 
height of the columns is divided into eight parts and a 
half; one of which is to be taken for the thickness of the 
column. These, then, are the rules for the several inter- 
columniations. For, as the distances between the columns 
increase, so must the shafts of the columns increase in 





86 


thickness. If, for instance, in the areeostylos, they were a 
ninth or a tenth part of the height, they would appear too 
delicate and slender ; because the air interposed between 
the columns destroys and apparently diminishes, their 
thickness. On the other hand, if, in the pycnostylos, their 
thickness or diameter were an eighth part of the height, 
the effect would be heavy and unpleasant, on account of 
the frequent repetition of the columns, and the smallness 
of the intercolumniations. ‘The arrangement is there- 
fore indicated by the species adopted. Columns at the 
angles, on account of the unobstructed play of air round 
them, should be one-fiftieth part of a diameter thicker 
than the rest, that they may have a more. graceful effect. 
The deception which the eye undergoes should be allowed 
_ for in execution. The diminution of columns taken at 
the hypotrachelium, is to be so ordered, that for columns 
of fifteen feet and under, it should be one-sixth of the 
lower diameter. From fifteen to twenty feet in height, 
the lower diameter is to be divided into six parts and a 
half; and five parts and a half are to be assigned for the 
upper thickness of the column. When columns are from 
twenty to thirty feet high, the lower diameter of the 
shaft must be divided into seven parts, six of which are 
given to the upper diameter. From thirty to forty feet 
high, the lower diameter is divided into seven parts and 
a half, and six and a half given to the top. From forty 
to fifty feet, the lower diameter of the shaft is to be di- 
vided into eight parts, seven of which must be given to 
the thickness under the hypotrachelium. _ If the propor- 
tion for greater heights be required, the thickness at top 
must be found after the preceding method ; always re- 
membering, that as the upper parts of columns are more 


87 


distant from the eye, they deceive it when viewed from 
below, and that we must, therefore, actually add what 
they apparently lose. The eye is constantly seeking 
after beauty; and if we do not endeavour to gratify it by 
proper proportions and an increase of size, where neces- 
sary, and thus remedy the defect of vision, a work will 
always be clumsy and disagreeable. Of the swelling 
which is made in the middle of columns, which the Greeks 
call éyraesc, so that it may be pleasing and appropriate, I 
shall speak at the end of the book. 


88 


CHAPTER III. 


OF FOUNDATIONS ; AND OF COLUMNS AND THEIR 
ORNAMENTS. 


Ir solid ground can be come to, the foundations. should 
go down to it and into it, according to the magnitude 
of the work, and the substruction should be built up as 
solid as possible. Above the ground of the foundation, 
the wall should be one-half thicker than the columns it is 
to receive, so that the lower parts which carry the greatest 
weight, may be stronger than the upper part, which is call- 
ed the stereobata: nor must the mouldings of the bases of 
the columns project beyond the solid. Thus, also, should 
be regulated the thickness of all walls above ground. The 
intervals between the foundations brought up under 
the columns, should be either rammed down hard, or 
arched, so as to prevent the foundation piers from swerv- 
ing. If solid ground cannot be come to, and the ground 
be loose or marshy, the place must be excavated, cleared, 
and either alder, olive, or oak piles, previously charred, 
must be driven with a machine, as close to each other as 
possible, and the intervals, between the piles, filled with 
ashes. ‘The heaviest foundations may be laid on such a 
base. When they are brought up level, the stylobate 
(plinths) are placed thereon, according to the arrange- 
ment used, and above described for the pycnostylos, sys- 
tylos, diastylos or eustylos, as the case may be. In the 
areeostylos it is only necessary to preserve, in a peripteral 
building, twice the number of intercolumniations on the 
flanks that there are in front, so that the length may be 


89 


twice the breadth. Those who use twice the number of 
columns for the length, appear to err, because they thus 
make one intercolumniation more than should be used. 
The number of steps in front should always be odd, since, 
in that case, the right foot, which begins the ascent, will be 
that which first alights on the landing of the temple. The 
thickness of the steps should not, I think, be more than ten 
inches, nor less than nine, which will give an easy ascent. 
The treads not less than one foot and a half, nor more 
than two feet; and if the steps are to go all round the 
temple, they are to be formed in the same manner. But 
if there is to be a podium on three sides of the temple, 
the plinths, bases of the columns, columns, corone, and 
cymatium, may accord with the stylobata, under the 
bases of the columns. The stylobata should be so ad- 
justed, that, by means of small steps or stools, it may be 
highest in the middle. For if it be set out level, it will 
have the appearance of having sunk in the centre. The 
mode of adjusting the steps (scamilli impares), in a pro- 
per manner, will be shewn at the end of the book. The 
scamilli being prepared and set, the bases of the columns 
may be laid, their height being equal to the semidiame- 
ter of the column including the plinth, and their projec- 
tion, which the Greeks call éx@oga, one quarter of the 
diameter of the column. Thus the height and breadth, 
added together, will amount to one diameter and a half. 
If the attic base be used, it must be so subdivided that the 
upper part be one-third of the thickness of the column, 
and that the remainder be assigned for the height of the 
plinth. Excluding the plinth, divide the height into four 
parts, one of which is to be given to the upper torus ; 


-then divide the remaining three parts into two equal 
N 


90 


parts, one will be the height of the lower torus, and the 
other the height of the scotia, with its fillets, which the 
Greeks call rg0x0¢ (trochilus). If Ionic, they are to be set 
out so that the base may each way be equal to the thick- 
ness and three eighths of the column. Its height and that 
of the plinth the same as the attic base. The plinth 
is the same height as in that of the attic base, the re- 
mainder, which was equal to one-third part of the co- 
lumn’s diameter, must be divided into seven parts, three 
of which are given to the upper torus; the remaining four 
parts are to be equally divided into two, one of which is 
given to the upper cavetto, with its astragals and listel, 
the other to the lower cavetto, which will have the ap- 
pearance of being larger, from its being next to the 
plinth. The astragals must be an eighth part of the sco- 
tia, and the whole base on each side is to project three 
sixteenths of a diameter. The bases being thus com- 
pleted, we are to raise the columns gn them. Those of 
the pronaos and posticum are to be set up with their axes 
perpendicular, the angular ones excepted, which, as well 
as those on the flanks, right and left, are to be so placed 
that their interior faces towards the cell be perpendicu- 
lar. The exterior faces will diminish upwards, as above- 
mentioned. Thus the diminution will give a pleasing 
effect to the temple. The shafts of the columns being 
fixed, the proportions of the capitals are thus adjusted: if 
pillowed, as in the Ionic, they must be so formed that the 
length and breadth of the abacus be equal to the diameter 
of the lower part of the column and one eighteenth more, 
and the height of the whole, including the volutes, half a 
diameter. The face of the volutes is to recede within 
the extreme projection of the abacus one thirty-ninth part 


91 


of the width of the abacus. Having set out these points 
on the listel of the abacus at the four angles, let fall ver- 
tical lines. These are called catheti. The whole height 
of the capital is now to be divided into nine parts and a 
half, whereof one part and a half is the height of the 
abacus, and the remaining eight are for the eye of the 
volute. Within the line dropt from the angle of the aba- 
cus, at the distance of one and a half of the parts last 
found, let fall another vertical line, and so divide it that 
- four parts and a half being left under the abacus, the 
point which divides them from the remaining three and a 
half, may be the centre of the eye of the volute; from 
which, with a radius equal to one half of one of the parts, if 
a circle be described, it will be the size of the eye of the vo- 
lute. Through its centre let an horizontal line be drawn, 
and beginning from the upper part of the vertical dia- 
meter of the eye as a centre, let a quadrant be described 
whose upper part shall touch the under side of the aba- 
cus; then changing the centre, with a radius less than_ 
the last by half the width of the diameter of the eye, pro- 
ceed with other quadrants, so that the last will fall into 
the eye itself, which happen in the vertical -line, ata 
point perpendicularly under that of setting out. The 
heights of the parts of the capital are to be so regulated 
that three of the nine parts and a half, into which it was 
divided, lie below the level of the astragal on the top of 
the shaft. The remaining parts are for the cymatium, 
abacus, and channel. The projection of the cymatium 
beyond the abacus is not to be greater than the size of 
the diameter of the eye. ‘The bands of the pillows pro- 
ject beyond the abacus, according to the following rule. 
Place one point of the compasses in the centre of the 


92 


eye, and let the other extend to the top of the cymatium, 
then describing a semicircle, its extreme part will equal the 
projection of the band of the pillow. The centres, from 
which the volute is described, should not be more distant 
from each other than the thickness of the eye, nor the 
channels sunk more than a twelfth part of their width. 
The foregoing are the proportions for the capitals of co- 
lumns which do not exceed fifteen feet in height: when 
they exceed that, they must be otherwise proportioned, 
though upon similar principles, always observing that the 
square of the abacus is to be a ninth part more than the di- 
ameter of the column, so that, inasmuch as its diminution 
is less as its height is greater, the capital which crowns it 
may also be augmented in height and projection. The me- 
thod of describing volutes, in order that they may be 
properly turned and proportioned, will be given at 
the end of the book: The capitals being completed, and 
set on the tops of the shafts, not level throughout the 
range of columns, but so arranged with a gauge as to fol- 
low the inclination which the small steps on the stylobata 
produce, which must be added to them on the cen- 
tral part of the top of the abacus, that the regularity 
of the epistylia may be preserved: we may now con- 
sider the proportion of these epistylia, or architraves. 
When the columns are at least twelve and not more than 
fifteen feet high, the architrave must be half a diameter 
in height. When they are from fifteen to twenty feet in 
height, the height of the column is to be divided into 
thirteen parts, and one of them taken for the height of the 
architrave. So from twenty to twenty-five feet, let the 
height be divided into twelve parts and a half, and one 
part be taken for the height of the architrave. Thus, in 


98 


proportion to the height of the column, is the architrave 
to be proportioned ; always remembering, that the higher 
the eye has to reach, the greater is the difficulty it has in 
piercing the density of the air, its power being diminished 
as the height increases ; of which the result is, a confusion 
of the image. Hence, to preserve a sensible proportion 
of parts, if in high situations, or of colossal dimensions, 
we must modify them accordingly, so that they may ap- 
pear of the size intended. The under side of the archi- 
trave is to be as wide as the upper diameter of the co- 
lumn, at the part under the capital; its upper part equal 
‘in width to the lower diameter of the column. Its cyma- 
_ tium is to be one seventh part of the whole height, and 
its projection the same. After the cymatium is taken 
out, the remainder is to be divided into twelve parts, 
three of which are to be given to the lower fascia, four to 
the next, and five to the upper one. The zophorus, or 
frieze, is placed over the epistylium, than which it must 
be one fourth less in height; but if sculptured, it must 
be one fourth part higher, that the effect of the carving 
may not be injured. Its cymatium is to be a seventh part 
of its height, the projection equal to the height. Above 
the frieze is placed the dentil-band, whose height must be 
equal to that of the middle fascia of the architrave, its pro- 
jection equal to its height. The cutting thereof, which 
the Greeks call ~eroy% (metoche), is to be so executed that 
the width of each dentil may be half its height, and the 
space between them two-thirds of the width of a dentil. 
The cymatium is to be one sixth part of its height. The 
corona, with its cymatium, but without the sima is to 
be the same height as the. middle fascia of the archi- 
trave. ‘The projection of the corona and dentils, together 


94 


is to be equal to the height from the frieze to the top of 
the cymatium of the corona. It may, indeed, be generally 
observed, that projections are more beautiful when they 
are equal to the height of the member. ‘The height of | 
the tympanum, which crowns the whole work, is to be 
equal to one ninth part of the extent of the corona, mea- 
sured from one extremity of its cymatium to the other, 
and set up in the centre. Its face is to stand perpendicu- 
larly over the architrave and the hypotrachelia of the co- 
lumns. The corone over the tympanum are to be equal 
to that below, without the simz. Above the corone are 
set the sime, which the Greeks call ézir:Side¢, whose 
height must be one-eighth more than that of the corona. 
The height of the acroteria is to be equal to that of the 
middle of the tympanum ; the central ones one eighth part 
higher than those at the angles. All members over the 
capitals of columns, such as architraves, friezes, corone, 
tympana, crowning members (fastigia), and acroteria, 
should not be vertical, but inclined forwards, each a 
twelfth part of its height; and for this reason, that when 
two lines are produced from the eye, one to the upper 
part of a member, and the other to its lower part, the 
upper line or visual ray will be longer than the lower 
one, and if really vertical, the member will appear to 
lean backwards; but if the members are set out as above 
directed, they will have the appearance of being perpen- | 
dicular. The number of flutes in a column is twenty- 
four. They are to be hollowed, so that a square kept 
passing round their surface, and at the same time kept 
close against the arrises of the fillets, will touch some 
point in their circumference and the arrises themselves 
throughout its motion. The additional thickness of the 


95 


flutes and fillets in the middle of the column, arising from 
the entasis or swelling, will be proportional to the swell- 
ing. On the sime of the corone on the sides of tem- 
ples, lions’ heads should be carved ; and they are to be 
so disposed that one may come over each column, and the 
others at equal distances from each other, and answering 
to the middle of each tile. ‘Those which are placed over 
the columns are to be bored through, so as to carry off 
the rain-water collected in the gutter. But the interme- 
diate ones must be solid, so that the water from the tiles, 
which is collected in the gutter, may not be carried off in 
the intercolumniations, and fall on those passing. Those 
over the columns will appear to vomit forth streams of 
water from their mouths. In this book I have done my 
utmost to describe the proportions of Ionic temples: in 
that following I shall explain the proportions of Doric 
and Corinthian temples. 


THE 
ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE FOURTH. 





INTRODUCTION. 


Frinpine, O Emperor, that many persons have left us 
precepts in Architecture, and volumes of comment- 
aries thereon, not systematically arranged, but mere 
general principles, little more indeed than scattered 
hints, I considered it a worthy and useful task, first, to 
give a general view of the whole subject, and then to 
dilate in each book on the detail. Thus, Caesar, I treated 
in the first book on the duties of an architect, and the 
0 


98 


sciences in which he should be skilled. In the second, I 
taught the knowledge of the different materials used in 
building. The third contained instructions on the ar- 
rangement of sacred buildings, their different forms and 
species, and the distributions appropriate to each sort ; 
confining myself, however, to the use of the Ionic order, 
which, of the three, from the great delicacy of its pro- 
portions, requires the most attention in its use. I shall 
now, in this book, point out the difference and properties 
of the Doric and Corinthian Orders. 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE ORIGIN OF THE THREE SORTS OF COLUMNS, 
AND OF THE CORINTHIAN CAPITAL. 


Tue Corinthian Column is, except in its capital, of the 
same proportion as the Ionic: but the additional height 
" of its capital makes it taller and more graceful ; the 
Tonic capital being but one third of the diameter of the 
shaft in height, whilst that of the Corinthian is equal to 
the thickness of the shaft. Thus, the two thirds of the 
thickness of the shaft, which are added to its height, give 
it, in that respect, a more pleasing effect. The other 
members which are placed on the Columns, are borrowed 
either from the Doric or Ionic proportions: inasmuch 
as the Corinthian itself has no regular settled rules for 
its cornice, and other ornaments, but is regulated by 
analogy, either from the mutuli in the cornice, or the 
guttz in the architrave, or epistylium in the Doric order; 
or it is set out according to the laws of the Ionic, with a 
sculptured frieze, dentils and a cornice. ‘Thus, from the 
two orders, by the interposition of a capital, a third order 
arises. The three sorts of columns, different in form, have 
received the appellations of Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, 
of which the first is of the greatest antiquity. For Dorus, 
the son of Hellen, and the Nymph Orseis, reigned over 
the whole of Achaia and Peloponnesus, and built at 
Argos, an ancient city, on a spot sacred to Juno, a tem- 
ple, which happened to be of this order. / After this, 
many temples similar to it, sprung up in the other parts 
of Achaia, though the proportions which should be pre- 


100 


served in it, were not as yet settled. But afterwards when 
the Athenians, by the advice of the Delphic oracle in a 
general assembly of the different states of Greece, sent over 
into Asia thirteen colonies at once, and appointed a go- 
vernor or leader to each, reserving the chief command for 
Ion, the son of Xuthus and Creiisa, whom the Delphic 
Apollo had acknowledged as son; that person led them over 
into Asia, and occupied the borders of Caria, and there built 
the great cities of Ephesus, Miletus, Myus (which was long 
since destroyed by inundation, and its sacred rites and 
suffrages transferred by the Ionians to the inhabitants of 
Miletus), Priene, Samos, Teos, Colophon, Chios, Ery- 
three, Phocewea, Clazomense, Lebedos, and Melite. The 
last, as a punishment of the arrogance of its citizens, was 
detached from the other states in a war levied pursuant 
to the directions of a general council; and in its place, 
as a mark of favor towards king Attalus, and Arsinoé, 
the city of Smyrna was admitted into the number of 
Ionian states, which received the appellation of Ionian 
from their leader Ion, after the Carians and Lelege had - 
been driven out. /In this country, allotting different spots 
for sacred purposes, they began to erect temples, the first 
of which was dedicated to Apollo Panionios, and re- 
sembled that which they had seen in Achaia, and they 
gave it the name of Doric, because they had first seen 
that species in the cities of Doria. / As they wished to 
erect this temple with columns, and had not a knowledge 
of the proper proportions of them, nor knew the way in 
which they ought to be constructed, so as at the same 
time to be both fit to carry the superincumbent weight, 
and to produce a beautiful effect, they measured a man’s 
foot, and finding its length the sixth part of his height, 


101 


they gave the column a similar proportion, that is, they 
made its height, including the capital, six times the 
thickness of the shaft, measured at the base. Thus the 
Doric order obtained its proportion, its strength, and its 
beauty, from the human figure. A With a similar feeling 
they afterwards built the temple of Diana. But in 
that, seeking a new proportion, they used the female 
figure as the standard: and for the purpose of pro- 
ducing a more lofty effect, they first made it eight times 
its thickness in height./ Under it they placed a base, 
after the manner of a Le to the foot ; they also added - 
volutes to its capital, like graceful curling hair hanging 
on each side, and the front they ornamented with cy- 
matia and festoons in the place of hair. On the shafts 
they sunk channels, which bear a resemblance to the 
folds of a matronal garment. Thus two orders were in- 
vented, one of a masculine character, without ornament, 
the other bearing a character which resembled the de- 
licacy, ornament, and proportion of a female. The suc- 
cessors of these people, improving in taste, and preferring 
a more slender proportion, assigned seven diameters to 
the height of the Doric column, and eight and a half to 
the Ionic. / That species, of which the Ionians were the 
inventors, has received the appellation of Ionic. / The 
third species, which is called Corinthian, resembles in its 
character, the graceful elegant appearance of a virgin, in 
whom, from her tender age, the limbs are of a more de- 
licate form, and whose ornaments should be unob- 
trusive. The invention of the capital of this order is 
said to be founded on the following occurrence. A Co- 
rinthian virgin, of marriageable age, fell a victim to a 
violent disorder. After her interment, her nurse, col- 


102 


lecting in a basket those articles to which she had shewn 
a partiality when alive, carried them to her tomb, and 
placed a tile on the basket for the longer preservation of 
its contents. The basket was accidentally placed on the 
root of an acanthus plant, which, pressed by the weight, _ 
shot forth, towards spring, its stems and large foliage, 
and in the course of its growth reached the angles of the 
tile, and thus formed volutes at the extremities. Calli- 
machus, who, for his great ingenuity and taste was called 
by the Athenians Catatechnos, happening at this time to 
pass by the tomb, observed the basket; and the delicacy 
of the foliage which surrounded it. Pleased with the 
form and novelty of the combination, he constructed 
from the hint thus afforded, columns of this species in the 
country about Corinth, and arranged its proportions, de- 
termining their proper measures by perfect rules.” The 
method of setting out the capital is as follows. Its height, 
including the abacus, is to be equal to the diameter of 
the lower part of the column. The width of the abacus 
is obtained by making its diagonal from opposite angles, 
equal to twice its height. It will thus have a proper 
front on each face. The faces of the four sides of the 
abacus are to be curved inwards from its extreme angles, 
equal to one ninth of its extent. The thickness of the 
lower part of the capital must be equal to the diameter of 
the top of the shaft, exclusive of the apothesis and astra- 
gal. The height of the abacus is a seventh of the height 
of the whole capital; the remainder is to be divided into 
three parts, one of which is to be given to the lower leaf, 
the middle leaf will occupy the space of the next third 
part, the stalks or caulicoli will be the same height as the 
last named, out of which the leaves spring for the recep- 


103 


tion of the abacus. Large volutes are generated from 
these, which branch out towards the angles. The smaller 
volutes spread out towards the flowers, which are intro- 
duced in the centre of each abacus. Flowers whose 
diameters are equal to the height of the abacus, are to be 
placed in the central part of each its faces. By attention 
to these rules the Corinthian capital will be properly 
proportioned. . Other sorts of capitals are however 
placed on these columns, which, differing in proportion, 
and standing on a different sort of. shaft, cannot be re- 
ferred to any other class; but their origin, though the 
detail be changed, is traced to, and deduced from the 
Corinthian, the Ionic, and the Doric, their only differ- 
ences arising from a variation of the arrangement of the 
sculpture on them. 


104 


CHAPTER II. 


OF THE ORNAMENTS OF COLUMNS. 


Tue origin and invention of the different species of co- 
lumns having been discussed, it is now necessary to say 
something on the subject of their ornaments, how they 
originated, and upon what principles and for what pur- 
poses they were invented. In all buildings the timber 
framed work, which has various names, crowns them. 
The timbers vary as much in their uses as in their names. 
Those are called bressummers (trabes) which are placed 
over columns, pilasters (parastate), and ante. In the 
framing of floors, beams (tigna) and boards (axes) are 
used. If the span of a roof be large, a ridge piece (co- 
lumen) is laid on the top of the king post (columna, 
whence is derived the word column), and a tye beam 
(transtrum) and struts (capreoli) will be necessary. If 
the roof be of moderate span, the ridge piece (columen), 
and rafters (cantherii), of sufficient projection at their 
feet to throw the water off the walls, will answer the pur- 
pose. On the rafters are laid purlines (templa), and 
again on these, to receive the tiles, are placed common 
rafters (asseres), which must be of sufficient length to 
cover the walls and protect them. Thus each piece has 
its proper place, origin, and purpose. Hence, following the 
arrangement of timber framing, workmen have imi- 
‘tated, both in stone and marble, the disposition of tim- 
‘bers in sacred edifices, thinking such a distribution ought 
to be attended to ; because some antient artificers, having 
laid the beams so that they ran over from the inner face 


105 e 


of the walls, and projected beyond their external face, 
filled up the spaces between the beams, and ornaménted 
the cornices and upper parts with wood-work elegantly 
wrought. They then cut off the ends of the beams that 
projected over the external face of the wall, flush with its 
_facé; the appearance whereof being unpleasing, they 
fixed, on the end of each beam so cut, indented tablets, . 
similar to the triglyphs now in use, and painted them 
with a waxen composition of a blue colour, so that the 
ends of the beams in question might not be unpleasant 
. to the eye. Thus the ends of the timbers covered with 
tablets, indented as just mentioned, gave rise to the tri- 
glyph and metopa in the Doric order. Others, in subse- 
quent works, suffered the rafters’ feet above each tri- 
glyph, to run over, and hollowed out the projecting infe- 
rior surface. Thus, from the arrangement of beams, arose 
the invention of triglyphs ; and, from the projection of 
the rafters, the use of mutuli under the corona. On 
which latter account it is observable, that in works of 
stone and marble the carving of the mutuli is inclined, in 
imitation of the feet of rafters, whose slope is necessary 
to carry off the water. Hence we have the’ imitation of 
the earliest works to account for the Doric triglyph and 
mutulus, and not,‘ gs some have erroneously said, from 
the circumstance of triglyphs being introduced as win- 
dows; which could not be the case, inasmuch as they 
are placed on external angles, and immediately over co- 
lumns, in both which situations windows would be ab- 
surd, in the highest degree, for the tye at the angles of 
buildings would be entirely destroyed, if occupied by 
windows; and therefore the dentils of the Ionic orders 
might as properly be seen to occupy the places of win- 
P 


106 


dows, if the spaces occupied by triglyphs have an origin 
of such a nature. The intervals, moreover, between den- 
tils, as well as those between triglyphs, are called meto- 
pe. Besides, the Greeks, by the word ozo, signify 
the beds of the beams, which we call cava columbaria: 
thus the space between two beams obtained the name of a 
metopa. As in works of the Doric order triglyphs and 
mutuli were first used, so in Ionic works the use of dentils 
was first introduced ; for as the mutuli bear a resemblance 
to the projecting feet of the principal rafters, so, in the 
Ionic order, the dentils imitate the projection of the com- 
mon rafters. \ Hence the Greeks never placed dentils be- 
low the mutuli, because the feet of common rafters cannot 
be below those of principal rafters. For a design must be 
anomalous, when that which ought to be above the prin- 
cipal rafters is placed below them. ‘The antients, there- 
fore, neither approved nor used mutuli nor dentils in the 
cornices of their pediments, but corone simply ; because 
neither principal nor common rafters tail on the front of 
a pediment, neither can they project beyond it, their di- 
rection being towards the eaves. Their opinion, there- 
fore, evidently was, that a distribution would not be 
correct in a copy which could not exist in the proto- 
type. For the perfection of all works depends on their 
fitness to answer the end proposed, and on principles re- 
sulting from a consideration of Nature herself; and 
. they approved those only which, by strict analogy, were 
’ borne out by the appearance of utility. Their principles 
were thus established, and they have left us the symme- 
try and proportion of each order. Following their steps, 
I have already spoken of the Ionic and Corinthian orders: 
I shall now proceed to give a succinct account of the 
Doric order, and its most approved proportion. 


107 


CHAPTER III. 
OF THE DORIC PROPORTIONS. 


Some antient architects have asserted that sacred build- 
ings ought not to be constructed of the Doric order, be- 
cause false and incongruous arrangements arise in the 
use of it. Such were the opinions of Tarchesius, Pitheus, 
and Hermogenes. ‘The latter, indeed, after having pre- 
pared a large quantity of marble for a Doric temple, 
changed his mind, and, with the materials collected, 
made it of the Ionic order, in honour of Bacchus. It is 
not because this order wants beauty, antiquity (genus), 
or dignity of form, but because its detail is shackled and 
inconvenient, from the arrangement of the triglyphs, and 
the formation of the sofite of the corona (lacunaria). It 
is necessary that the triglyphs stand centrally over the 
columns, and that the metope which are between the 
triglyphs should be as broad as high. Over the columns, 
at the angles of the building, the triglyphs are set at 
the extremity of the frieze, and not over the centre of the 
columns. In this case the metope adjoining the angular 
triglyphs are not square, but wider than the others by 
half the width of the triglyph. Those who resolve to 
make the metope equal, contract the extreme interco- 
lumniation half a triglyph’s width. It is, however, a 
false method, either to lengthen the metope or to con- 
tract the intercolumniations ; and the antients, on this 
account, appear to have avoided the use of the Doric order 


108 


in their sacred buildings. I will, however, proceed to ex- 
plain the method of using it, as instructed therein by my 
masters ; so that if any one desire it; he will here find the 
proportions detailed, and so amended, that he may, with- 
out a defect, be able to design a sacred building of the 
Doric order. The front of a Doric temple, when columns 
are to be used, must, if tetrastylos, be divided into twenty- 
eight parts; if hexastylos, into forty-four parts; one of 
which parts is called a module, by the Greeks ¢uSérns: 
from the module so found the distribution of all the parts 
is regulated. The thickness of the columns is to be 
equal to two modules, their height equal to fourteen. 
The height of the capital one module, its breadth one 
module and a sixth. Let the height of the capital be di- 
vided into three parts; then one of those parts is to be 
assigned for the abacus and its cymatium, another for the 
echinus, with its fillets ; the third for the hypotrachelium. 
The diminution of the column is to be as directed for the 
Ionic order in the third book. ‘The architrave or episty- 
lium, with its tenia and gutte, is to be one module in 
height ; the teenia is the seventh part of a module; the 
length of the guttee under the teenia plumb with the tri- 
glyphs, and including the fillet, the sixth part of a module. 
The width of the soffit of the architrave is to correspond 
with the thickness of the column at the hypotrachelium. 
Over the architrave triglyphs are placed, with metope 
one module and a half high, and one module wide on the 
face. They are to be distributed so, that as well over the 
columns at the angles, as over the intermediate columns, 
they may stand above the two central quarters of the 
columns. ‘Two are to be placed in each intercolumnia- 


109 


tion, except in the central one of the pronaos and posti- 
cum, in which three are to be set; because, by mak- 
ing the middle intercolumniations wider, a freer pas- 
sage will be given to those who approach the statues of 
the gods. The width of a triglyph is divided into six 
parts, of which five are left in the middle, and of the 
two halves of the remaining part, one is placed on 
the right and the other on the left extremity. In the 
centre a flat surface is left, called the femur (thigh), by 
the Greeks yg0s, on each side of which channels are 
cut, whose faces form a right angle; and on the right 
and left of these are other femora; and, lastly, at 
the angles are the two half channels. The triglyphs 
being thus arranged, the metopz, which are the spaces 
between the triglyphs, are to be as long as they are high. 
On the extreme angles are semi-metope half a module 
wide. In this way all the defects in the metope, inter- 
columniations, and lacunaria, will be remedied. The ca- 
pitals of the triglyphs are to be made the sixth part of a 
module. Over the capitals of the triglyphs the corona is 
to be laid, whose projection is one half and a sixth part 
of a module, with a Doric cymatium over it, and an- 
other above it, so that, with the cymatia, the corona is 
one,half of a module high. In the soffit of the corona, 
perpendicularly over the triglyphs and centres of the 
metopx, are arranged gutte and sinkings. The former, 
so as to have six gutta: appearing in front, and three on 
the return : the remaining spaces, which occur from the in- 
creased width of the metopa beyond that of the triglyphs, 
are left plain or sculptured with representations of thun- 
derbolts, and near the edge of the corona a channel is cut, 


110 


called a scotia. The remaining parts, the tympana, sime, 
and coronex, are to be executed similar to those described 
for Ionic buildings. ‘The above is the method used in 
diastyle works. If the work be systyle, with a monotri- 
glyph: the front of the building, when tetrastylos, is to 
be divided into twenty-three parts; when hexastylos, into 
thirty-five: of these, one part is taken for a module; ac- 
cording to which, as above directed, the work is to be set 
out. Thus, over the epistylia are two metopz and one tri- 
glyph, and in the angles a space will be left equal to half 
atriglyph. The middle part, under the pediment, will be 
equal to the space of three triglyphs and three metope, 
in order that the central intercolumniation may give 
room to those approaching the temple, and present a 
more dignified view of the statue of the god. Over the 
capitals of the triglyphs a corona is to be placed, with 
a Doric cymatium below, as above described, and another 
above. The corona, also, together with the cymatia, is 
to be half'a module high. ‘The soffit of the corona, per- 
pendicularly over the triglyphs and centres of the meto- 
pz, is to have guttee and sinkings, and the other parts as 
directed for the diastyle. It is necessary that the co- 
lumns should be wrought in twenty faces, which, if plane, 
will have twenty angles; but if channelled, they are 
to be so formed, that a square being described, whose 
side is equal to that of the channel or flute, if, in the 
middle of the square, the point of a pair of compasses 
be placed, and a segment of a circle be drawn, touch- 
ing the angles of the square, such segment will deter- 
mine their sinking. ‘Thus is the Doric column properly 
chamfered. In respect of the additional thickness in 


EE 


the middle thereof, as mentioned in the third book, 
respecting Ionic columns, reference must be made to 
that place. As the external symmetry of Corinthian, 
Doric, and Ionic edifices has been explained, it is neces- 


sary to give directions for the interior arrangements of 
the cell and pronaos. 


112 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF THE INTERIOR OF THE CELL AND THE ARRANGE- 
MENT OF THE PRONAOS. 


Tue length of a temple must be twice its width. The 
cell itself is to be in length one fourth part more than 
the breadth, including the wall in which the doors are 
placed. ‘The remaining three parts run forward to the 
ante of the walls of the pronaos, which ante are to be 
of the same thickness as the columns. If the temple be 
broader than twenty feet, two columns are interposed 
between the two ante, to separate the pteroma from the 
pronaos. The three intercolumniations between the ante 
and the columns may be enclosed with fence work, either 
of marble or of wood, so, however, that they have doors 
in them for access to the pronaos. If the width be greater 
than forty feet, columns opposite to those which are be- 
tween the ante, are placed towards the inner part, of the 
~ same height as those in front, but their thickness is to be 
diminished as follows. If those in front are an eighth 
part of their height in thickness, these are to be one 
ninth ; and if the former are a ninth, or a tenth, the lat- 
ter are to be proportionally diminished. For where the 
air does not play round them, the diminution thus made 
will not be perceived ; lest, however, they should appear 
slenderer, when the flutes of the external columns be twen- 
ty-four in number, these may have twenty-eight, or even 
thirty-two. Thus, what is taken from the absolute mass 
of the shaft, will be imperceptibly aided by the number 
of the flutes, and though of different thicknesses, they 


113 


will have the appearance of being equal. This arises 
from the eye embracing a greater number of surfaces, 
and thence producing on the mind the effect of a larger 
body. For if two columns, equally thick, one of them with- 
out flutes, and the other fluted, are measured round with 
lines, and the line is passed over the flutes and their fillets, 
though the columns are of equal thickness, the lines which 
girt them will not be equal, for that which passes over 
the fillets and flutes will of course be the longest. This 
being the case, it is not improper in confined and enclos- 
ed situations to make the columns of slenderer propor- 
tions, when we have the regulation of the flutes to assist 
us. The thickness of the walls of the cell must depend 
on the magnitude of the work, taking care, however, that 
the ante are the same thickness as the columns. If 
built in the ordinary way, they are to be of small stones, 
very carefully laid, but if of square stone or marble, 
the pieces should be chiefly small and of equal size, 
because then, the upper stones coming over the middle 
of the joint below them, bind the work together and give 
it strength ; fillets of lime used in pointing the joints and 
beds give the work an agreeable appearance. 


114 


CHAPTER V. 
OF THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF TEMPLES. 


Ir there be nothing to prevent it, and the use of the edi- 
fice allow it, the temples of the immortal gods should 
have such an aspect, that the statue in the cell may have 
its face towards the west, so that those who enter to sacri- 
fice, or to make offerings, may have their faces to the east 
as well as to the statue in the temple. ‘Thus suppliants, 
and those performing their vows, seem to have the temple, 
the east, and the deity, as it were, looking on them at the 
same moment. Hence all altars of the gods should be 
placed towards the east. But if the nature of the place 
do not permit this, the temple is to be turned as much as 
possible, so that the greater part of the city may be seen 
from it. Moreover, if temples be built on the banks of 
a river, as those in Egypt on the Nile, they should face 
the river. So, also, if temples of the gods be erected on 
the road side, they should be placed in such a manner 
that those passing by may look towards them, and make 
their obeisance. 


115 


oe 
CHAPTER. Vi.-*> 


OF THE PROPORTIONS OF THE DOORS OF TEMPLES. 


Tue following are the rules for door-ways of temples, 
and for their dressings (antepagmenta). First the spe- 
cies is to be considered: this is Doric, Ionic, or Attic. 
The Doric is constructed with these proportions. The 
top of the cornice, which is above the upper dress- 
ing, is to be level with the top of the capitals in the pro- 
naos. The aperture of the door is determined as follows. 
The height from the pavement to the lacunaria is to be 
divided into three parts and a half, of which two consti- 
tute the height of the doors. The height thus obtained 
is to be divided into twelve parts, of which five and a 
_half are given to the width of the bottom part of the door. 
This is diminished towards the top, equal to one-third of 
the dressing, if the height be not more than sixteen feet. 
From sixteen feet to twenty-five the upper part of the 
opening is contracted one fourth part of the dressing. 
From twenty-five to thirty feet the upper part is con- 
tracted one-eighth of the dressing. Those that are 
higher should have their sides vertical. The thickness of 
the dressings in front is to be equal to one-twelfth of the 
height of the door, and they are to diminish towards the 
top a fourteenth part of their width. ‘The height of the 
architrave is to be equal to the upper part of the dress- 
ing. ‘The cymatium is to be a sixth part of the dressing; 
its projection equal toits thickness. The cymatium is to be 
sculptured in the Lesbian form, with an astragal. Above 
the cymatium of the architrave of the dressing (super- 


116 


cilium), the fr the frieze (hyperthyrum),_is placed, and it is to 
have a Doric ¢ cymatium,. witha Lesbian astragal, in low 
relief. Over this the corona is placed, unornamented, 
and_with a ‘cymatium. Its projection is to equal ‘the 
height of the supercilium placed over the architrave of 
the dressing. On the right and left, projectures are 
made ; and the us of the dressings are comected 
“dy : amitre. Ifthe doors areTonic,_ their height is to be 
regulated as in those that are Doric. Their width is 
found by-dividing the height into two parts and a half, 


and taking one and a half for the width below:—The di-__ 


minution is to be as in the Doric door-way. The width of 
the dressings i is to be a fourteenth part of the height. of the 
aperture; the cymatium a sixth part of their width; the 
remainder, deducting the cymatium, is to be divided into 
twelve parts, three of which are given to the first fascia, 
with the astragal, four to the second, and five to the third. 

The § fascize, with the astragal, run quite round the dress- 


ings. ‘The upper members of the door-way are the same~- 


as s those of the Doric. The trusses s (ancones), or prothy- 


eed 


bottom of the level of the caécheaees, RO Of. the Ae 


leaf. Their width on the face is one-third of the dressing, 


and at the bottom one fourth part less. The wooden doors 
are to be so put together, that the hinge styles (scapi car- 
dinales) may be one-twelfth of the height of the aperture. 
The pannels (t lympana) between the styles are to be three 
out of twelve parts in width. The arrangement of the 
rails is to be such, that when the height is divided into five 
parts, two are given to the upper and three to the lower 
rail. In the centre the middle rails (medii impages) are 
placed ; the others are disposed above and below. The 


117 


width of the rail is to be one-third of the pannel, and its 
cymatium a sixth part of the rail itself. The width of the 
inner styles is one half of the rail, and the raising (replum) 
four sixths of the rail. The styles nearest the dressings 
are made one half of the rail. If the doors are folding, the 
height remains the same, but the width is to be increased. 
If in four folds, the height is to be increased. The Attic 
doors are made of the same proportion as the Doric, ex- 
cept ‘that, in the dressings, the fascia return within the 
cymatium ; and these are proportioned so, that exclusive 
of the cymatium, they are to be two sevenths. ‘These 
doors are not to be inlaid (cerostrata), nor in two folds, 
but single folded, _and_to open outwards. I have ex- 
plained, to the best of my power, the proportions used in 
setting out Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian temples, accord- 
ing to the approved methods. I shall now treat of the 


arrangement of Tuscan temples, and how they ought to 
be built. 


118 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF THE TUSCAN PROPORTIONS: OF CIRCULAR TEM- 
PLES, AND OTHER SPECIES. 


Tue length of the site of the temple intended, must be 
divided into six parts, wherefrom subtracting one part, 
the width thereof’ is obtained. ‘The length is then di- 
vided into two parts, of which the furthest is assigned to 
the cell, that next the front to the reception of the 
columns. The above width is to be divided into ten 
parts, of which, three to the right and three to the left 
are for the smaller cells, or for the ale, if such are re- 
quired: the remaining four are to be given to the central 
part. The space before the cells in the pronaos, is to 
have its columns so arranged, that those at the angles are 
to correspond with the ante of the external walls: the 
two central ones, opposite the walls, between the ante 
and the middle of the temple, are to be so disposed, that 
between the ante and the above columns, and in that 
direction, others may be placed. Their thickness below 
is to be one seventh of their height: their height one 
third of the width of the temple, and their thickness at 
top is to be one fourth less than their thickness at bottom. 
Their bases are to be half a diameter in height. The 
plinths, which are to be circular, are half the height of 
the base, with a torus and fillet on them as high as the 
plinth. The height of the capital is to be half a diame- 
ter. The width of the abacus is equal to the lower diame- 
ter of the column. The height of the capital must be 
divided into three parts, of which one is assigned to the 


119 


- plinth or abacus, another to the echinus, the third to the 
hypotrachelium, with its apophyge. Over the columns 
coupled beams are laid of such height as the magnitude 
of the work may require. ‘Their width must be equal to 
that of the hypotrachelium at the top of the column, and 
they are to be so coupled together with dovetailed dowels 
as to leave a space of two inches between them. For if 
they are laid touching each other, and the air does not play 
round them, they heat and soon rot. Above the beams and 
walls the mutuli project one fourth the height of the co- 
lumn. In front of these members are fixed, and over them 
the tympanum of the pediment, either of masonry or tim- 
ber. Above the pediment the ridge-piece (columen), 
rafters (cantherii), and purlines (templa), are distributed 
so that the water may drip therefrom on three sides. Cir- 
cular temples are also constructed, of which some are 
MONOPTERAL, having columns without a cell; others are 
called peripTeRAL. ‘Those without a cell have a raised 
floor (tribunal), and an ascent thereto equal to one third 
of their diameter. On the pedestals (stylobate:) columns 
are raised, whose height is equal to the diameter which 
the pedestal occupies, and their thickness, including the 
bases and capitals, one tenth part of their height. The 
height of the architrave is half a diameter; the frieze and 
members over it are to be proportioned according to the 
directions to that effect which have been given in the third 
book. But if the building be peripteral, two steps, and 
then the pedestals are built, thereunder ; the wall of the 
cell is raised at a distance-from the-pedestals of about 
_one fifth of the whole diameter, and ‘in the middle is 
left an opening for the door. The clear diameter of 
the cell within the walls, is to be equal to the height of 


120 


the columns above the pedestals. The columns round 
the cell are proportioned as above directed. In the cen- 
tre of the roof, the height of it is equal to half the diame- 
ter of the work, exclusive of the flower. The flower 
without the pyramid is to equal in dimensions the capi- 
tals of the columns. ‘The other parts are to be similar in 
proportions and symmetry to those already described. 
Other species of temples are also erected, regulated on 
the same principles, but with a different arrangement 
‘of parts, such as the temple of Castor in the Circus 
Flaminius, and of Beardless Jupiter (Vejovis), between 
the two groves. As also, though more ingeniously con- 
trived, that of Diana Aricina, with columns on each 
flank of the pronaos. ‘The first temples built similar to 
that of Castor in the Circus, were those of Minerva 
on the Acropolis of Athens, and of Pallas at Sunium in 
Attica, the proportions of which are similar. The 
length of the cells is double their breadth, and in other 
respects, those symmetries which are used in the fronts 
are preserved on the sides. Others, with an arrange- 
ment of columns’similar to that observed in Tuscan tem- 
ples, transfer it to Corinthian and Ionic designs ; for in 
some examples, instead of the ante which run out from the 
pronaos, two columns are substituted, and thus Tuscan 
and Greek principles are mixed. Others removing the 
walls of the cell, and placing them between the interco- 
lumniations of the pteroma, give more space to the cell 
by their removal, and by preserving in other respects the 
same proportions and symmetry, seem to have invent- 
ed another species which may be called. pseupopeERiP- 
TERAL. These different sorts of temples are dependent 
on the sacrifices performed in them; for temples to the 


121 


gods are not all to be constructed in the same manner, 
the worship and sacred rites of each being different. I 
have, according to the rules taught to me, explained the 
different principles on which temples are constructed, the 
different orders and symmetry of their detail, wherein 
and how they respectively differ; and this I have writ- 
ten to the best of my ability. I shall now describe 
the altars of the immortal gods, and their situation as 
adapted to sacrifices. 


122 


CHAPTER VIII. 
OF ALTARS TO THE GODS. 


Tue aspect of altars should be to the east, and they 
should always be lower than the statues in the temple, 
so that the supplicants and those that sacrifice, in looking 
towards the deity, may stand more or less inclined, as the 
reverence to be shewn may proportionably require. Hence 
altars are thus contrived ; the heights of those of Jupiter 
and the celestial gods are to be as high as they may con- 
veniently be ; those of Vesta, the Earth, and the Sea are 
made lower. . On these principles, altars in the middle 
of temples are fitly proportioned. In this book the me- 
thod of designing temples is given; in the following, 


rules will be given for the arrangements to be observed 
in public buildings. 





Mee LP eee eS Oe 





THE 
ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE FIFTH. 








INTRODUCTION. 


Tuose, O Emperor, who at great length have explained 
their inventions and doctrines, have thereby given to 
their writings an extended and singular reputation. 
Would that such were the case with my labours, so that 
amplification might bring reputation with it. That, how- 
ever, I believe is not probable, since a treatise on Archi- 
tecture is not like History or Poetry. History interests 
the reader by the various novelties which occur in it; 


f 


124 


Poetry, on the other hand, by its metre, the feet of its 
verses, the elegant arrangement of the words, the dia- 
logue introduced into it, and the distinct pronunciation of 
the lines, delighting the sense of the hearer, leads him to 
the close of the subject without fatigue. This cannot be 
accomplished in Architectural works, because the terms, 
which are unavoidably technical, necessarily throw an 
obscurity over the subject. ‘These terms, moreover, 
are not of themselves intelligible, nor in common use; 
hence if the precepts which are delivered by authors 
extend to any length, and are otherwise explained 
than in few and perspicuous expressions, the mind of the 
reader is bewildered by the quantity and frequent re- 
currence of them. These reasons induce me to be brief 
in the explanation of unknown terms, and of the 
symmetry of the parts of a work, because the matter 
{may thereby be more easily committed to and retained 
by the memory. I am moreover inclined to be con- 
cise when I reflect on the constant occupation of the 
citizens in public and private affairs, so that in their 
ofew leisure moments they may read and understand as 
much as possible. Pythagoras and his followers wrote 
the precepts of their doctrines in cubical arrangement, 
the cube containing two hundred and sixteen verses, of 
which they thought that not more than three should be 
allotted to any one precept. A cube is a solid, with six 


_equal square faces, which, however it falls, remains 


steady and immoveable till removed by force: such are 
the dice which are thrown on a table by gamesters. From 
this circumstance they seem to have adopted the cube, 
since like the cube, this number of verses makes a more 
lasting impression on the memory. The Greek comic 


125 


poets have also divided the action of their stories, by the 
interposition of the chorus to ease the principle actors, so 
that a cubical proportion is observed. Since the ancients 
therefore used these methods, founded on the observance 
of natural effects, seeing that the subject I treat of will 
be new and obscure to many, I thought it would be pre- 
ferable to divide it into small portions, that it might more 
easily strike the understanding of the reader. The sub- 
jects also are so arranged, that those of the same nature 
are classed together. Thus, O Cesar, I explained the 
proportions of temples in the third and fourth books ; 
in this I intend to describe the arrangement of public 
buildings; and that of the forum first, because therein 
public no less than private affairs are regulated by the 
magistrates. 


126 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE FORUM AND BASILICA. 


Tue Greeks make their forum square, with a spacious and 
double portico, ornamenting it with columns placed at 
narrow intervals, and stone or marble epistylia, and form- 
ing walks above on the timber framed work. In the 
cities of Italy, however, this practice is not followed, be- 
cause the antient custom prevails of exhibiting the shows 
of gladiators in the forum. Hence, for the convenience of 
the spectators, the intercolumniations must be wider ; and 
the bankers’ shops are situated in the surrounding porticos 
with apartments on the floors over them, which are con- 
structed for the use of the parties, and as a depdt of 
the public revenue. The size of the forum is to be pro- 
portioned to the population of the place, so that it be 
not too small to contain the numbers it should hold, 
nor have the appearance of being too large, from a want 
of numbers to occupy it. The width is obtained by as- 
signing to it two-thirds of its length, which gives it an 
oblong form, and makes it convenient for the purpose of 
the shows. The upper columns are to be made one- 
fourth less than those below ; and that because the latter 
being loaded with a weight, ought to be the stronger: be- 
cause, also, we should follow the practice of nature, which, 
in straight growing trees, like the fir, cypress, and pine, 
makes the thickness at the root greater than it is at top, 
and preservesa gradual diminution throughout their height. 
Thus, following the example of nature, it is rightly ordered 
that bodies which are uppermost should be less than 


127 


those below, both in respect of height and thickness. The 
- basilica should be situated adjoining the forum, on 
the warmest side, so that the merchants may assemble 
there in winter, without being inconvenienced by the cold. 
Its width must not be less than a third part, nor more than 
half its length, unless the nature of the site prevent it, 
and impose a different proportion; if, however, that be 
longer than necessary, a chalcidicum is placed at the 
extremity, as in the Julian basilica on the Aquiline. 
The columhs of basilica are to be of a height equal 
to the breadth of the portico, and the width of the 
portico one-third of the space in the middle. The upper 
columns, as herein above described, are to be less than 
those below. ‘The parapet between the upper columns 
should be made one-fourth less than those columns, so 
that those walking on the floor of the basilica may not be 
seen by the merchants. ‘The proportions of the archi- 
trave, frieze, and cornice may be learnt from what has 
been said on columns in the third book. Basilice, 
similar to that which I designed and carried into execu- 
tion in the Julian colony of Fano, will not be deficient 
either in dignity or beauty. The proportions and symme- 
try of this are as follow. The middle vault, between the 
columns, is one hundred and twenty feet long, and sixty 
feet wide. The portico round it, between the walls and 
columns, is twenty feet wide. The height of the columns, 
including the capitals, is fifty feet, their thickness five 
feet, and they have pilasters behind them twenty feet 
high, two feet and a half wide, and one and a half 
thick, supporting beams which carry the floor of the 
portico. Above these, other pilasters are placed, 
eighteen feet high, two feet wide, and one foot thick, 


128 


which also receive timbers for carrying the rafters of the 
portico, whose roof is lower than the vault. The spaces 
remaining between the beams, over the pilasters and 
the columns, are left open for light in the intercolumnia- 
tions. The columns in the direction of the breadth of 
the vault are four in number, including those on the an- 
gles right and left; lengthwise, in which direction it joins 
the forum, the number is eight, including those at the 
angles; on the opposite side, including all the angular 
columns, there are six columns, because the two central 
ones on that side are omitted, so that the view of the pro- 
naos of the temple of Augustus may not be obstructed: 
this is placed in the middle of the side wall of the ba- 
silica, facing the centre of the forum and the temple of 
Jupiter. The tribunal is in the shape of a segment of a 
circle; the front dimension of which is forty-six feet, 
that of its depth fifteen feet ; and is so contrived, that the 
merchants who are in the basilica may not interfere with 
those who have business before the magistrates. Over the 
columns round the building architraves are placed. 
These are triple, each of them two feet in size, and are fas- 
tened together. At the third column, on the inside, they 
return to the antze of the pronaos, and are carried on to 
meet the segment on the right and left. Over the archi- 
traves, upright with the capitals, piers are built three feet 
high and four feet square, on which are laid beams well 
wrought, joined together in two thicknesses of two feet 
each, and thereon the beams and rafters are placed over 
the columns, ante, and walls of the pronaos, carrying 
one continued ridge along the basilica, and another from 
the centre thereof, over the pronaos of the temple. Thus 
the two-fold direction of the roof gives an agreeable 


129 


effect outside, and to the lofty vault within. Thus the 
omission of the cornices and parapets, and the upper 
range of columns, saves considerable labour, and greatly 
diminishes the cost of the work ; and the columns in one 
height brought up to the architrave of the arch, give an 
appearance of magnificence and dignity to the building. 


- 130 


CHAPTER II. 
OF THE TREASURY, PRISON, AND CURIA. 


Tue treasury, prison, and curia are to adjoin the forum, 
to which their dimensions are to be proportionate. First 
of the curia, which must be suitable to the importance of 
the community or state. Ifsquare, its height is to be once 
and a half its width; but if oblong, the length and width 
must be added together, and one half of their sum assigned 
for the height up to the lacunaria. The walls, moreover, 
at half their height, are to have cornices run round them 
of wood or plaster. For if such be not provided, the 
voices of the disputants meeting with no check in their 
ascent, will not be intelligible to the audience. But 
when the walls are encircled round with cornices, the 
voice, being thereby impeded, will reach the ear before 
its ascent and dissipation in the air. 


131 


CHAPTER III. 


OF THE THEATRE, AND OF ITS HEALTHY SITUATION. 


Wuen the forum is placed, a spot as healthy as possible 
is to be chosen for the theatre, for the exhibition of games 
on the festival days of the immortal gods, according to 
the instructions given in the first book respecting the 
healthy disposition of the walls of a city. For the spec- 
tators, with their wives and children, delighted with the 
entertainment, sit out the whole of the games, and the 
‘pores of their bodies being opened by the pleasure they 
enjoy, are easily affected by the air, which, if it blows 
from marshy or other noisome places, infuses its bad 
qualities into the system. These evils are avoided by 
the careful choice of a situation for the theatre, taking 
especial precaution that it be not exposed to the south ; 
for when the sun fills the cavity of the theatre, the air 
confined in that compass being incapable of circulating, 
by its stoppage therein, is heated, and burns up, extracts, 
and diminishes the moisture of the body. On these ac- 
counts, those places where bad air abounds are to be 
avoided, and wholesome spots to be chosen. The con- 
struction of the foundations will be more easily managed, 
if the work be on a hill; but if we are compelled to lay 
them on a plain, or in a marshy spot, the piling and 
foundations must be conducted as described for the 
foundations of temples in the third book. On the 
foundations, steps (gradationes) are raised, of stone 
and marble. The number of passages (praecinctiones) ; 
must be regulated by the height of the theatre, and are 


132 


not to be higher than their width, because if made higher, 
they will reflect and obstruct the voice in its passage 
upwards, so that it will not reach the upper seats above 
the passages (preecinctiones), and the last syllables of 
words will escape. In short, the building should be so 
contrived, that a line drawn from the first to the last step 
should touch the front angle of the tops of all the seats ; 
in which case the voice meets with no impediment. The 
entrances (aditus) should be numerous and spacious ; 
those above ought to be unconnected with those below, in 
a continued line wherever they are, and without turnings; 
so that when the people are dismissed from the shows, they 
may not press on one another, but have separate outlets 
free from obstruction in all parts. A place which deadens ~ 
the sound must be carefully avoided ; but, on the con- 
trary, one should be selected in which it traverses freely. 
This will be effected, if a place is chosen wherein there is 
no impediment to sound. ‘The voice arises from flowing 
breath, sensible to the hearing through its percussion 
on the air. It is propelled by an infinite number of 
circles similar to those generated in standing water when 
a stone is cast therein, which, increasing as they recede 
from the centre, extend to a great distance, if the narrow- 
ness of the place or some obstruction do not prevent their 
spreading to the extremity ; for when impeded by obstruc- 
tions, the first recoil affects all that follow. In the same 
manner the voice spreads in a circular direction. But, 
whereas the circles in water only spread horizontally, the 
voice, on the contrary, extends vertically as well as _hori- 
zontally. Wherefore, as is the case with the motion of wa- 
ter, so with the voice, if no obstacle disturb the first undu- 
lation, not only the second and following one, but all of 


133 


them will, without reverberation, reach the ears of those at 
bottom and those at top. On this account the antient — 
architects, following nature as their guide, and reflecting 
on the properties of the voice, regulated the true ascent of 
steps in a theatre, and contrived, by musical proportions 
and mathematical rules, whatever its effect might be on 
the stage (scena), to make it fall on the ears of the 
audience in a clear and agreeable manner. Since in — 
brazen or horn wind instruments, by a regulation of the 
genus, their tones are rendered as clear as those of 
stringed instruments, so by the application of the laws 
of harmony, the antients discovered a method of in- 
creasing the power of the voice in a theatre. 


134 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF HARMONY. 


Harmony is an obscure and difficult musical science, but 
most difficult to those who are not acquainted with the 
Greek language; because it is necessary to use many 
Greek words to which there are none corresponding in 
Latin. I will therefore explain, to the best of my abi- 
lity, the doctrine of Aristoxenus, and annex his diagram, 
and will so designate the place of each tone, that a per- 
son who studiously applies himself to the subject may 
very readily understand it. The inflexion of the voice 
is two-fold; first, when it is monotonous, second, when 
it proceeds by intervals. ‘The first is not limited by ca- 
dences at the close, nor in any other place; no percep- 
tible difference of tone being discoverable between its 
beginning and its ending, the time between each sound 
is however distinctly marked, as in speaking, when we 
pronounce the words, sol, lux, flos, nox. Herein the ear 
does not perceive any difference of tone between the be- 
ginning and the ending, by the voice rising higher or de- 
scending lower ; neither, that from a high pitch it becomes 
lower, nor the contrary. But when the voice moves by in- 
tervals, it is differently inflected, being sometimes at a high 
pitch, and sometimes at a low one, and resting at different 
times on different tones ; by doing which with quickness 
and facility, it appears unfixed. Thus in singing, the variety 
of inflexion produces an air. In short, by the use of dif: .. 
ferent intervals, the tones are so marked and determined, 


135 


that we perceive the pitch at which it begins, and that at 
which it finishes, though the intermediate tones are not 
heard. There are three sorts of modulation, the en- 
harmonic (agovic), the chromatic (yeoua), and the 
diatonic (dséroves), so called by the Greeks. The 
enharmonic is so constructed by art, as to be full of 
majesty and pathos. The chromatic by the skilful con- 
trivance and closeness of its intervals has more sweetness. 
The diatonic, whose intervals are more simple, is most 
natural. The disposition of the tetrachords, in these 
genera, are dissimilar: The enharmonic tetrachord con- 
sists of two dieses, and two whole tones ; a diesis being 
the fourth part of a tone, and two of them consequently 
equal to a semitone. In the chromatic tetrachord, there 
are two consecutive semitones, and the third interval con- 
tains three semitones. ‘The diatonic tetrachord has two 
consecutive tones, and an interval of a semitone. Thus 
in each genus, the whole tetrachord is equal to two 
whole tones and a semitone. But the intervals in each 
genus, differ when considered separately. For nature 
has made the divisions of tones, semitones, and tetra- 
chords, and has established those proportions of the in- 
tervals, by which workmen are guided in making and as- 
signing their just proportions to instruments. Each genus 
consists of eighteen sounds, which the Greeks call pSoyyos 
(phthongi). Of these, eight sounds in each of the 
genera, vary neither in sound nor situation. The re- 
maining ten in each are not common to the other two 
genera. Those which do not vary, contain between 
them the variable sounds, and are the limits of the tetra- 
chords in all the genera, Their names are as follow : 
proslambanomenos, hypaté hypatén, hypate mesén, mesé, 


136 


neté synémmendn, paramesé, neté diezeugmenon, neté 
hyperboleén. The variable, which lie between those 
that are not variable, change their places according to the 
genus. ‘Their names are parhypaté hypatdén, lichanos 
hypatén, parhypaté mesdn, lichanos mesén, trité syném- 
men6n, paraneté synémmendn, trité diezeugmenon, pa- 
raneté diezeugmend6n, trité hyperboledn, paraneté hyper- 
boleén. Those sounds which shift their places, change also 
their nature, and are at different intervals, as, for instance, 
the interval between hypaté and parhypaté, which in the 
enharmonic genus is only a diesis or quarter tone, is in 
the chromatic genus a semitone. So the lichanos is only 
a semitone distant from the hypaté in the enharmonic 
genus ; whereas in the chromatic it is two semitones dis- 
tant, and in the diatonic three semitones. ‘Thus the ten 
sounds, by their situation in the different genera, make 
three different sorts of melody. There are five tetrachords. 
The Greeks call the lowest dxarov (hypaton) ; the second, 
which is in the middle, #éoov (meson). The third, which 
is joined to the two preceding, is called cuvyupévov 
(synémmenon). The fourth, which is disjoined, called 
dueCevypévoy (diezeugmenon). The fifth, which is the 
highest, the Greeks call vxregGoAasov (hyperboleon). 
The natural consonances, which the Greeks call cvp- 
Qwvics (symphoniz), are six in number; diatessarén 
(fourth), diapente (fifth), diapasén (octave), diapasén 
with diatessar6n (eleventh), diapasén with diapente 
(twelfth), and disdiapasén (fifteenth). These names are 
given them from the number of tones which the voice 
passes through in going to them, counting that on which 
the voice begins as one; thus, moving through them to 
the fourth sound is called diatessar6n ; to the fifth, dia- 


187 


pente, to the eighth diapasén, to the eleventh diapasén 
with diatessarén, to the twelfth diapasén with diapente, 


to the fifteenth disdiapasén. For between two intervals, | — 


either in a melody sung by a voice, or played on a | 
stringed instrument, neither with the third, sixth nor | 
seventh can there be consonances, but only, as above 
shewn, with the diatessarén and diapente up to the dis- 
diapas6n do natural consonances arise, and those are pro- 
duced by an union of those sounds which the Greeks call 
QX0yyos (phthongi). 


138 


‘CHAPTER V. 


OF THE VASES USED IN THE THEATRE. 


On the foregoing principles, the brazen vases are to be” 
made with mathematical proportions, depending on the 
size of the theatre. They are formed so, as, when struck, 
to have sounds, whose intervals are a fourth, fifth, and so 
on consecutively to a fifteenth. Then, between the 
seats of the theatre, cavities having been prepared, they 
are disposed therein in musical order, but so as not to 
touch the wall in any part, but to have a clear space 
round them and over their top: they are fixed in an in- 
verted position, and on the side towards the scene are 
supported by wedges not less than half a foot high: and 
openings are left towards the cavities on the lower beds 
of the steps, each two feet long, and a half a foot wide. 
The following is the rule for determining the situations 
of these vases. If the theatre be of moderate size they 
must be ranged round at half its height. Thirteen cavi- 
ties are prepared at twelve equal distances from each 
other, so that those tones above-named, producing neté 
hyperbolzén, are to be placed in the cavities at the ex- 
treme ends; second, from the ends, the vessels are to be 
of the pitch of neté diezeugmendén, bearing an interval of 
one fourth from the last mentioned. The third neté pa- 
rames6n, an interval of another fourth. The fourth, neté 
synemmen6n, another fourth. The fifth, mesé, a fourth. 
The sixth, hypaté mesén, a fourth: in the centre of the 
range, hypaté. hypatén, a fourth. By the adoption of 
this plan, the voice which issues from the scene, expand- 


139 


ing as from a centre, and striking against the cavity of 
each vase, will sound with increased clearness and har- 
mony, from its unison with one or other of them. If, 
however, the theatre be on a larger scale, the height is to 
be divided into four parts, so that three ranges of cavities 
may be provided, one for harmonic, the second for chroma- 
tic, and the third for diatonic vases. That nearest the bot- 
tom is for the harmonic genus as above described, for a 
lesser theatre. In the middle range on the extremities, 
vases producing the chromatic hyperboleon are placed: in 
the second cavities the chromatic diezeugmenon, a fourth 
_ from the last : in the third, at another interval of a fourth, 
the chromatic synémmenon : in the fourth, the chromatic 
meson, another fourth: in the fifth, the chromatic hy- 
paton, another fourth: in the sixth, the paramesé, which 
is a fifth to the chromatic hyperbolzon, and a fourth to 
the chromatic meson. In the centre none are to be 
placed, because no other sound in the chromatic genus 
can be in consonance therewith. In the upper division 
and range of the cavities, the vases on the extremities are 
constructed to produce the tones of the diatonic hyperbo- 
lon: in the next cavities, those of the diatonic diezeugme- 
non, afourth: in the third, of the diatonic synémmenon, a 
fourth: in the fourth, of the diatonic meson, a fourth: i 

the fifth, of the diatonic hypaton, a fourth: in the ae 
proslambanomenos, a fourth: in the centre, mesé, be- 
tween which and proslambanomenos is an octave, and a 
fifth between it and the diatonic hypaton. He who is de- 
sirous of more fully understanding these matters, must refer 
to the musical diagram’ at the end of the book, which is 
that left to us by Aristoxenes, who with much intelligence 
and labour, formed a general scale of the tones. Hence, 


140 


he who carefully attends to these rules, to the nature of 
the voice, and to the taste of the audience, will easily learn 
the method of designing theatres with the greatest per- 
fection. Some one may perchance urge, that many 
theatres are yearly built in Rome, without any regard 
to these matters. But let him not be herein mistaken, 
inasmuch as all public theatres which are constructed 
of wood, have many floors, which are necessarily con- 
ductors of sound. This circumstance may be illus- 
trated, by consideration of the practice of those that sing 
to the harp, who when they wish to produce a loud ef- 
fect, turn themselves to the doors of the scene, by the 
aid of which their voice is thrown out. But when thea- 
tres are constructed of solid materials, that is of rubble, 
squared stones or marble, which are not conductors of 
sound, it is necessary to build them according to the 
rules in question. If it be asked what theatre in Rome 
can be referred to as an example of their utility, we can- 
not produce one, but such may be seen in some of 
the provinces of Italy, and many in the Grecian States. 
We moreover know that L. Mummius on the destruction 
of the theatre at Corinth, brought to Rome some of its 
brazen vases, and dedicated them as spoils at the temple 
_ of Luna. Many clever architects who have built theatres 
in small cities, from the want of other, have made use of 
earthen vessels, yielding the proper tones, and have 
introduced them with considerable advantage. ~ 


141 


CHAPTER VI. 


OF THE SHAPE OF THE THEATRE. 


Tue form of a theatre is to be adjusted so, that from the 
centre of the dimension allotted to the base of the pe- 
rimeter a circle is to be described, in which are in- 
scribed four equilateral triangles, at equal distances from 
each other, whose points are to touch the circumference of 
the circle. This is the method also practised by astrolo- 
gers in describing the twelve celestial signs, according to 
the musical division of the constellations. Of these tri- 
angles, the side of that which is nearest the scene will de- 
termine the face thereof in that part where it cuts the 
circumference of the circle. Then through the centre a 
line is drawn parallel to it, which will separate the pul- 
pitum of the proscenium from the orchestra. Thus the 
pulpitum will be more spacious than that of the Greeks, 
and be the better, on account of our actors remaining 
chiefly on the scena. In the orchestra, seats are as- 
signed to the senators, and the height of its pulpitum 
must not exceed five feet, so that those who sit in the or- 
chestra may be enabled to see all the motions of the 
actors. The portions between the staircases (cunei) of the 
theatre are so divided that the angles of the triangles, 
which touch the circumference, point to the directions of 
the ascents and steps between the cunei, on the first pre- 
cinction or story. Above these the steps are placed al- 
ternately, and form the upper cunei in the middle of 
those below. The angles thus pointing to staircases will 
be seven in number, the remaining five will mark certain 


142 


points on the scene. That in the middle, for instance, 
will mark the situation of the royal doors, those on the 
right and left, the doors of guests, and those at the ex- 
tremities, the points at which the road turns off. The 
seats (gradus) on which the spectators sit are not to 
be less than twenty inches in height, nor more than twen- 
ty-two. Their width must not be more than two feet and 
a half, nor less than two feet. 


“143 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF THE PORTICO AND OTHER PARTS OF THE 
THEATRE. 


Tue roof of the portico, which is on the last step, should 
be on a level with the top of the scene; by which ar- 
rangement the voice will extend and be distinct to 
those on the upper seats and roof. For if it be not 
equally high, where that height is deficient, the voice, 
first striking thereon, will be stopped. One sixth part of 
the diameter of the orchestra is taken between the lowest 
steps, and level with that dimension the lower seats are 
disposed. A continuation of this line on the scene marks 
the height of the entrances: for thus proportioned, they 
will be of sufficient altitude. The length of the scene 
must be double the diameter of the orchestra. The 
height of the podium, or pedestal, with its cornice and 
base, from the level of the pulpitum, is a twelfth part of 
the diameter of the orchestra. The columns on the po- 
dium, with their capitals and bases, are to be one-fourth 
of its diameter high. The architraves and cornices of 
those columns one-fifth of their height. The upper pe- 
destal, including the base and cornice, half the height 
of the lower pedestal. The columns on this pedestal one- 
fourth less in height than the lower columns. ‘The ar- 
chitrave and its cornice a fifth of the columns. If there 
is to be a third order, the upper pedestal is to be half the 
height of that under the middle order, and the architrave 
and cornice a fifth of the columns. It is not, however, 
possible to produce the same effect in every theatre by 


144 


the same proportions; but it behoves the architect to 
consider the proportions which symmetry requires, and 
those adapted to the nature of the place or the size of 
the work. Some things there are which their use re- 
quires of the same size in a large as in a small theatre ; 
such as the steps, preecinctions, parapets, passages, stairs, 
pulpita, tribunals, and others which occur; in all which, 
the necessity of suiting them to their use, makes it im- 
possible to form them symmetrically. So, also, if the 
materials are not provided in sufficient quantity, such as 
marble, wood, and the like, the diminution of or addition 
to the dimensions, so that it be not too much, and made 
with judgment, may be permitted: and this will be easily 
managed by an architect who is a man of experience, 
and who possesses ingenuity and talent. The parts of 
the scene are to be so distributed, that the middle door 
may be decorated as one of aroyal palace ; those on the 
right and left, as the doors of the guests. Near these 
are the spaces destined to receive the decorations ; which 
places the Greeks call regiaxros, from the turning trian- 
gular machines. Each of these machines has three species 
of decoration, which, when the subject changes, or on 
the appearance of a god, are moved round with sudden 
claps of thunder, and alter the appearance of the decora- 
tion. Near these places the turnings run out, which give 
entrance to the scene from the forum and from the 
country. 


145 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF THE THREE SORTS OF SCENES, AND OF THE 
THEATRES OF THE GREEKS. 


Tuere are three sorts of scenes, the Tragic, the Comic, 
and the Satyric. The decorations of these are different 
from each other. The tragic scenes are ornamented with 
columns, pediments, statues, and other royal decorations. 
The ‘comic scene represents private buildings and gal- 
leries, with windows similar to those in ordinary dwellings. 
The satyric scene is ornamented with trees, caves, hills, 
and other rural objects in imitation of nature. In the 
theatres of the Greeks the design is not_made on the same 
principles as those above mentioned, First, as to the gene- 
ral outline of the plan: whereas, in the Latin theatre, the 
points of four triangles touch the circumference, in 
the theatres of the Greeks the angles of three squares are 
substituted, and the side of that square which is nearest 
to the place of the scene, at the points where it touches 
the circumference of the circle, is the boundary of the 
proscenium. A line drawn parallel to this at the extremity 
of the circle, will give the front of the scene. Through 
the centre of the orchestra, opposite to the proscenium, 
another parallel line is drawn touching the circumference 
on the right and left, then one foot of the compasses being 
fixed on the right hand point, with a radius equal to the 
distance from the left point, describe a circle on the right 
hand side of the proscenium, and placing the foot of the 
compasses on the left hand point, with the distance of the 
right hand interval, describe another circle on the left side 
U 


146 


of the proscenium. Thus describing it from three cen- 
tres, the Greeks have a larger orchestra, and their scene is 
further recessed. The pulpitum, which they call Aoyeioy, 
is less in width: wherefore, among them, the tragic and 
comic performers act upon the scene; the rest going 
through their parts in the orchestra. Hence the performers 
are distinguished by the names of Scenici and ‘Thymelici. 
The height of the pulpitum is not less than ten feet, nor 
more than twelve. The directions of the stairs, between 
the cunei and seats, are opposite to the angles of the 
squares on the first praecinction. Above it the other 
stairs fall in the middle between the lower ones, and so on 
according to the number of preecinctions. When these 
matters are arranged with great care and skill, particular 
attention must be bestowed on the choice of a place where 
the voice falls smoothly, and reaches the ear distinctly 
without anecho. Some places are naturally unfavourable 
to the diffusion of the voice. Such are the dissonant, 
which in Greek are called zarnyovvres ; the circumsonant, 
which the Greeks call reginyovvres; the resonant, which 
they call &vrayouvres; and the consonant, which they call 
cuveyouvres. The dissonant places are those in which the 
voice, rising first upwards, is obstructed by some hard 
bodies above, and, in its return downwards, checks:the 
ascent of its following sounds. The circumsonant are 
those where the voice, wandering round, is at last 
retained in the centre, where it is dissipated, and, the 
final syllables being lost, the meaning of words is not dis- 
tinguished. The resonant are those in which the voice, 
striking against some hard body, is echoed in the last 
syllables so that they appear doubled. Lastly, the con- 
sonant are those in which the voice, aided by something 


147 


below, falls on the ear with great distinctness of words. 
Hence, if due care be taken in the choice of the situation, 
the effect of the voice will be improved, and the utility of 
the theatre increased. The differences of the figures 
consist in this, that those formed by means of squares are 
used by the Greeks, and those formed by means of 
triangles by the Latins. He who attends to thesé 
precepts will be enabled to erect a theatre in a perfect 
manner. 


148 


CHAPTER IX. 


OF THE PORTICOS AND PASSAGES BEHIND THE 
SCENES. 


Beuinp the scenes porticos are to be built; to which, in 
case of sudden showers, the people may retreat from the 
theatre, and also sufficiently capacious for the rehearsals 
of the chorus: such are the porticos of Pompey, of 
Eumenes at Athens, and of the temple of Bacchus ; 
and on the left passing from the theatre, is the Odeum, 
which, in Athens, Pericles ornamented with stone 
columns, and with the masts and yards of ships, from the 
Persian spoils. ‘This was destroyed by fire in the Mi- 
thridatic war, and restored by king Ariobarzanes. At 
Smyrna was the Strategeum: at Tralles were porticos on 
each side over the stadium, as in the scenes of theatres. 
In short, in all cities which possess skilful architects, 
porticos and walks are placed about the theatre, which 
ought to be constructed double, with their exterior 
columns of the Doric order, whose architraves, and 
cornices are to be wrought after the Doric method. 
Their width is to be thus proportioned: the height of 
the exterior columns is equal to the distance from the 
lower part of the shaft of the exterior columns to that of 
those in the middle, and from them to the walls which 
surround the walks of the portico is an equal distance. 
The middle range of columns is one fifth part higher than 
the exterior range; and is of the Ionic or Corinthian 
order. The proportions and symmetry of these columns 


149 


are not to be guided by the rules delivered for those 
of sacred buildings. For the style used in the temples 
of the gods should be dignified ; whereas, in porticos 
and similar works, it may be of a lighter character. 
If, therefore, the columns be of the Doric order, their 
height, including the capitals, is to be divided into fifteen 
parts, of which one is taken as a module. By this all the 
work is set out, making the thickness of the lower part of _ 
the column equal to two modules. The intercolumniation 
is of five modules and a half. The height ofa column, ex- 
clusive of the capital, fourteen modules ; the height of the 
capital one’ module, the width of it two modules and a 
sixth. The proportions of the rest of the work are to be the 
same as those described for sacred buildings in the fourth 
book. If Ionic columns be used, the shaft, exclusive of 
the base and capital, is to be divided into eight parts and 
a half, of which one is assigned to the thickness of the 
column. The base, with its plinth, is half a module 
high ; and the formation of the capital is to be as shewn 
in the third book. If Corinthian, the shaft and base are 
to be the same as the Ionic ; but the capital is to be pro- 
portioned as directed in the fourth book ; and the addition 
on the pedestal is made by means of the scamilli impares, 
mentioned in the third book. ‘The architraves, corone, 
and all the other parts, are set out in proportion to the 
columns as explained in the foregoing books. The cen- 
tral space between the porticos should be ornamented 
with verdure, inasmuch as hypethral walks are very 
healthy ; first, in respect of the eyes, because the air from 
green plants being light and volatile, insinuates itself 
into the body when in motion, clears the sight, and, 
removing the gross humours from the eyes, leaves the vi- 


150 


sion clear and distinct. Moreover, when the body is 
heated by the exercise of walking, the air, extracting its 
humours, diminishes corpulency, dissipating that which is 
superabundant in the body. ‘That this is the case, may be 
proved by observing, that from fountains in covered 
places, or those which are under ground, no moist va- 
pours rise ; whilst in open places exposed to the air, when 
the rising sun darts his rays upon the earth, he raises the 
vapours from humid and marshy places, and, gathering 
them into masses, carries them into the air. If, there- 
fore, in open places, the noxious humours of bodies are 
carried off by the air, as they are from the earth by 
means of clouds, there can be no doubt of the necessity 
of making spacious and pleasant walks open to the air in 
every city. That they may always be dry and free from 
mud, the following method must be adopted. They 
must be dug out and drained to the lowest possible level ; 
and on the right and left sewers must be constructed ; 
and in the walls thereof, towards the walk, drains are 
laid, with an inclination to the sewer. When this is 
done, the place is filled in with coals; over which the 
walks are strewed with gravel, and levelled. Thus, from 
the natural porosity of the coals, and the inclination of 
the drains towards the sewer, the quantity of water is 
carried off, and the passages remain dry and unaffected 
by the moisture. In these places the antients also made 
depdots for the reception of things necessary for the use 
of the city. For in case of the city.being under block- 
ade, all things are more easily provided than wood. Salt 
is with facility laid in beforehand; corn, from the public 
or private stores, is soon collected ; and the want of that 
is remedied by the use of garden herbs, flesh, or pulse. 


151 


Water is obtained either by digging new wells, or by col- 
lecting it from the roofs of buildings ; but wood, which 
is absolutely necessary for cooking the food, is provided 
with difficulty and trouble; and that which is slowly 
procured is quickly consumed. In such times these 
walks are opened, and an allowance distributed to the 
tribes, according to their numbers. Thus they are 
conducive to two good purposes; to health in time of 
peace, and to preservation in time of war. If walks are 
provided after these directions not only behind the scene 
of the theatre, but also adjoining the temples of all the 
gods, they will be of great utility in every city. As they 
have been sufficiently explained, the method of arrang- 
ing the different parts of baths will now follow. 


152 


CHAPTER X. 


OF THE ARRANGEMENT AND PARTS OF BATHS. 


First, as warm a spot as possible is to be selected, that 
is to say, one sheltered from the north and north-east. The 
hot and tepid baths are to receive their light from the winter 
west ; but, if the nature of the place prevent that, at all 
events from the south, because the hours of bathing are 
principally from noon to evening. Care must be taken 
that the warm baths of the women and men adjoin, and 
have the same aspect ; in which case the same furnace and 
vessels will serve both. The caldrons over the furnaces 
are to be three in number, one for hot water, another 
for tepid water, and a third for cold water: and they 
must be so arranged, that the hot water which runs cut 
of the heated vessel, may be replaced by an equal quantity 
from the tepid vessel, which in like manner is supplied 
from the cold vessel, and that the arched cavities in which 
they stand may be heated by one fire. The floors of the 
hot baths are to be made as follows. First, the bottom is 
paved with tiles of a foot and a half inclining towards 
the furnace, so that if a ball be thrown into it, it will not 
remain therein, but roll back to the mouth of the furnace ; 
thus the flame will better spread under the floor. Upon 
this, piers of eight inch bricks are raised, at such a dis- 
tance from each other, that tiles of two feet may form 
their covering. The piers are to be two feet in height, 
and are to be laid in clay mixed with hair, on which the 
above-mentioned two feet tiles are placed, which carry 


153 


the pavement. The ceilings, if of masonry, will be pre- 
ferable ; if, however, they are of timber, they should be 
plastered on the under side, which must be done as fol- 
lows. Iron rods; or arcs, are prepared and suspended by 
iron hooks to the floor as close as possible. These rods 
or arcs are at such distances from each other, that tiles, 
without knees, may rest on and be borne by every two 
_ ranges, and thus the whole vaulting depending on the 

iron may be perfected. The upper parts of the joints 
are stopped with clay and hair. The under side towards 
the pavement is first plastered with pounded tiles and 
lime, and then finished with stucco or fine plastering. If 
the vaulting of hot baths is made double it will be better, 
because the moisture of the steam cannot then affect the 
timber, but will be condensed between the two arches. 
The size of baths must depend on the number of persons 
who frequent them. Their proportions are as follow : their 
width is to be two thirds of their length, exclusive of the 
space round the bathing vessel (schola labri) and the 
gutter round it (alveus). The bathing vessel (labrum) 
should be lighted from above, so that the bye standers 
may not cast any shadow thereon, and thereby obstruct 
the light. The schola labri ought to be spacious, so that 
those who are waiting for their turn may be properly ac- 
commodated. ‘The width of the alveus between the wall 
of the labrum and the parapet must not be less than six 
feet, so that it may be commodious after the reduction of 
two feet, which are allotted to the lower step and the 
cushion. The laconicum and sudatories are to adjoin 
the tepid apartment, and their height to the spring- 
ing of the curve of the hemisphere is to be equal to 


their width. An opening is left in the middle of the 
X 


154 


dome from which a brazen shield is suspended by chains, 
capable of being so lowered and raised as to regulate the 
temperature. It should be circular, that the intensity 


of the flame and heat may be equally diffused from the 
centre throughout. 


155 


CHAPTER XI. 
OF THE PALESTRA. 


Txovcu not used by the people of Italy, it seems proper 
that I should explain the form of the palestra, and de- 
scribe the mode in which it was constructed by the Greeks. 
The square or oblong peristylia of palastra, have a walk 
round them which the Greeks call déevdAo0¢, two stadia in 
circuit : three of the sides are single porticos : the fourth, 
which is that on the south side, is to be double, so that 
when showers fall in windy weather, the drops may not 
drive into the inner part of it. In the three porticos are 
large recesses (exedre) with seats therein, whereon the phi- 
losophers, rhetoricians, and others who delight in study, 
may sit and dispute. In the double portico the following 
provision is to be made: the ephebeum is to be in the 
middle, which is in truth nothing more than a large exedra 
with seats, and longer by one third than its width, on 
the right is the coriceum, immediately adjoining which 
is the conisterium, near which, in the angle of the por- 
tico, is the cold bath, which the Greeks call Aovrgov. On 
the left of the ephebeum is the eleothesium, adjoining that 
is the frigidarium, whence a passage leads to the propig- 
neum in the angle of the portico. Near, but more in- 
ward, on the side of the frigidarium, is placed the vaulted 
sudatory, whose length is double its width; on one side 
of this is the laconicum, constructed as before described : 
on the other side is the hot bath. The peristylia of the 
paleestra are to be carefully set out as above mentioned. 
Exteriorly three porticos are constructed, one through 


156 


which those who come out of the paleestra pass; and sta- 
dial ones on the right and left, of which, that towards 
the north is double, and of considerable width. The 
other is single, and so formed that as well on the side next 
the wall, as on that where the columns stand, there are 
margins for paths of not less than ten feet, the centre 
part is sunk one foot and a half from the path, to which 
there is an ascent of two steps; the sunken part is not 
to be less than twelve feet in width. Thus, those who 
in their clothing walk round the paths, will not be in- 
commoded by the anointed wrestlers who are practising. 
This species of portico is called xystus (Zeros) by the 
Greeks ; for the wrestlers exercise in covered stadia in 
the winter time. Xysti ought, between the two porticos, 
to have groves or plantations, with walks between the 
trees and seat of cemented work. On the sides of the 
xystus and double portico are open walks which the 
Greeks call zegideousdes, but with us they are termed 
xysti, on which the athlete exercise themselves, when the 
weather is fine, in the winter. Behind the xystus the 
stadium is set out, of such dimensions that a great num- 
ber of people may commodiously behold the contending 
wrestlers. I have now given rules for the proper distri- 
bution of such buildings as are within the walls. 


157 


CHAPTER XII. 


OF HARBOURS AND OTHER BUILDINGS IN WATER. 


I must not omit to speak of the formation of harbours, 
but explain in what manner ships are secured therein in 
stormy weather. If they are naturally well situated, and 
have rocks or long promontories jutting out, which from 
the shape of the place, form curves or angles, they are of 
the greatest utility; because, in that case, nothing more 
is necessary than to construct porticos and arsénals 
round them, or passages to the markets ; and then erect 
a tower on each side, wherefrom chains may be suspended 
across by means of machinery. But, if the place be not 
thus fitted by nature, nor secure for ships in stormy wea- 
ther, and there be no river there to prevent it, but on 
one side there is a proper shore, then on the other side, 
by means of building or heaps of stones, a projection is 
run out, and in this the enclosures of harbours are form- 
ed. Building in the sea is thus executed. That powder 
is procured, which is found in the country between 
Cumz and the promontory of Minerva, and is mixed 
with the water in the proportion of two parts thereof to 
one of lime. Then, in the place selected, dams are form- 
ed in the water, of oaken piles tied together with chain 
pieces, which are driven firmly into the bottom. Between 
the ranges of piles, below the level of the water, the bed 
is dug out and levelled, and the work carried up with 
stones and mortar, compounded as above directed, till 
the wall fills the vacant space of the dam. If, however, 


158 


from the violence of the waves and open sea the dams 

cannot be kept together, then on the edge of the main 

land, a foundation for a wall is constructed of the greatest 

possible strength; this foundation is laid horizontally, 

throughout rather less than half its length ; the remainder, 

which is towards the shore, is made to overhang. Then, 

on the side towards the water, and on the flanks round 

the foundation, margins, projecting a foot and a half; are 

brought up to the level already mentioned. The over- 

hanging part is filled up underneath with sand, brought 

up level with the foundation. On the level bed thus 

prepared, as large a pier as possible is built, which must 

remain for at least two months to set. The margin which 

incloses the sand is then removed, and the sand being 

washed away by the action of the waves causes the fall 

of the mass into the sea, and by a repetition of this expe- 

dient the work may be carried forward into the sea. 

When the place does not afford the powder named, the 

following method is to be adopted. Double dams are 

constructed, well connected with planks and chaimpicces, 

and the cavity between them is filled up with clay and prrdx 
marsh weeds well rammed down. When rammed down 
and squeezed as close as possible, the water is emptied 
out with screw pumps or water wheels, and the place is 
emptied and dried, and the foundations excavated. If 
the bottom be of loose texture, it must be dug out till a 
solid bottom is come to, wider than the wall about to be 
erected, and the wall is then built of stone, lime, and 
sand. But if the bottom be very soft, alder, olive, or oak 
piles, previously charred, must be driven, and the inter- 
vals between them filled with coals, as directed above for 
the foundations of theatres and walls. . The wall is then 







159 


raised with squared stones, the joints of which are to be 
as long as possible, in order that the middle stones may 
be well tied in. The inside of the wall is then filled with 
rubble or masonry ; and on this, even a tower might be 
erected. When this is completed, the arsenals are to be 
constructed chiefly with a northern aspect; for if they 
are to the south, the heat will generate and nourish the 
rot, the worm, the ship worm, and other noxious insects ; 
and timber should be sparingly used in these buildings on 
account of fire. No rule can be given for the size, but 
they must be suited to receive the largest ships, so that, 
if drawn ashore, there may be plenty of room for them. 
In this book, as far as it has occurred to me, I have 
treated of the public buildings necessary for the use of a 
city : in that following, I shall treat of the convenience 
and symmetry of private houses. 


ad * aehuhiive 





THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE SIXTH. 








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INTRODUCTION. 


Aristippus, the Socratic philosopher, shipwrecked on 
the coast of Rhodes, perceiving some geometrical dia- 
grams thereon, is reported to have exclaimed to his 
companions, “ Be of good courage, I see marks of 
civilization:” and straightway making for the city of 
Rhodes, he arrived at the Gymnasium; where, dis- 
puting on philosophical subjects, he obtained such ho- 
nours, that he not only provided for himself, but fur- 
¥ 


162 


nished clothing and food to his companions. When his 
companions had completed their arrangements for return- 
ing home, and asked what message he wished to send to 
‘his friends, he desired them to say: that the posses- 
sions and provision to be made for children should be 
those which can be preserved in case of shipwreck ; in- 
asmuch as those things are the real supports of life which 
the chances of fortune, the changes of public affairs, 
and the devastation of war, cannot injure. Thus, also, 
Theophrastus, following up the sentiment that the 
learned ought to be more honoured than the rich, 
says, “that the learned man is the only person who is 
not a stranger in foreign countries, nor friendless when 
he has lost his relations; but that in every state he is a 
citizen, and that he can look upon a change of fortune 
without fear. But he who thinks himself secured by the 
aid of wealth, and not of learning, treads on slippery — 
ground, and leads an unstable and insecure life.”” Epi- 
curus also says, that fortune is of little assistance to the 
wise, since all that is of consequence or necessary may be 
obtained by the exercise of the mind and understanding. 
The poets, not less than the philosophers, have argued in 
this way; and those who formerly wrote the Greek co- 
medies delivered the same sentiments in verse ; as Eu- 
chrates, Chionides, Aristophanes, and, above all, Alexis, 
who said, that the Athenians deserved particular commen- 
dation, since, inasmuch as the laws of all the Greeks 
make it imperative on children to support their parents, 
those of the Athenians are only obligatory on those chil- 
dren who have been instructed, by the care of their pa- 
rents, in some art. Such as possess the gifts of for- 
tune are easily deprived of them: but: when learning is 





163 


once fixed in the mind, no age removes it, nor is its 
stability affected during the whole course of life. I there- 
fore feel myself under infinite obligations, and am grate- 
ful to my parents, who, adopting the practice of the 
Athenians, took care that I should be taught an art, and 
one of such a nature that it cannot be practised without 
learning and a general knowledge of the sciences. Since, 
then, by my parents’ care, and by the instruction of mas- 
ters, I had the means afforded me of acquiring know- 
ledge, and was naturally delighted with literary and phi- 
losophical subjects, I laid up those stores in my mind, 
from the use of which I enjoy the advantage of wanting 
no more, and the value of riches consists in having no- 
thing to wish for. But some thinking, perhaps, lightly of 
these things, suppose those only are wise who have plenty 
of money. Hence, many, aiming at that end alone, have, 
by the aid of their assurance, acquired notoriety from their 
riches. But I, Cesar, have not sought to amass wealth 
by the practice of my art, having been rather contented 
with a small fortune and reputation, than desirous of 
abundance accompanied by a want of reputation. It is 
true that I have acquired but little; yet I still hope, by 
this publication, to. become known to posterity. Neither 
is it wonderful that I am known but toa few. Other 
architects canvass, and go about soliciting employment, 
but my preceptors instilled into me a sense of the pro- 
priety of being requested, and not of requesting, to be 
entrusted, inasmuch the ingenuous man will blush and 
feel shame in asking a favour; for the givers of a favour 
and not the receivers, are courted. What must he sus- 
pect who is solicited by another to be entrusted with 
the expenditure of his money, but that it is done for 


164 


the sake of gain and emolument. Hence the antients 
entrusted their-works to those architects only who were 
of good family and well brought up; thinking it better 
to trust the modest, than the bold and arrogant, man. 
These artists only instructed their own children or rela- 
tions, having -regard to their integrity, so that property 
might be safely committed to their charge. When, 
therefore, I see this noble science in the hands of the un- 
learned and unskilful, of men not only ignorant of archi- 
tecture, but of every thing relative to buildings, I can- 
not blame proprietors, who, relying on their own intel- 
ligence, are their own architects; since, if the business 
is to be conducted by the unskilful, there is at least 
more satisfaction in laying out money at one’s own plea- 
sure, rather than at that of another person. No one 
thinks of practising at home any art (as that of a shoe- 
maker or fuller, for instance, or others yet easier) ex- 
cept that of an architect; and that because many who 
profess the art are not really skilled in it, but are falsely 
called architects. These things have induced me to 
compose a treatise on architecture and its principles, 
under an idea that it would be acceptable to all per- 
sons. As in the fifth book I treated on the construc- 
tion of public works, I shall in this explain the arrange- 
ment and symmetry of private buildings. 


165 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE SITUATION OF BUILDINGS ACCORDING TO 
THE NATURE OF DIFFERENT PLACES. 


Tues are properly desighed, when due regard is had to the 
country and climate in which they are erected. For the 
method of building which is suited to Egypt would be very 
improper in Spain, and that in use in Pontus would be ab- 
surd at Rome: so in other parts of the world a style suit- 
able to one climate, would be -very unsuitable to another ; 
for one part of the world is under the sun’s course, an- 
other is distant from it, and another, between the two, is 
temperate. Since, therefore, from the position of the hea- 
ven in respect of the earth, from the inclination of the 
zodiac and from the sun’s course, the earth varies in tem- 
perature in different parts, so the form of buildings must 
be varied according to the temperature of the place, and 
the various aspects of the heavens. In the north, build- 
ings should be arched, enclosed as much as possible, and 
not exposed, and it seems proper that they should face 
the warmer aspects. ‘Those under the sun’s course in 
southern countries where the heat is oppressive, should be 
exposed and turned towards the north and east. Thus the 
injury which nature would effect, is evaded by means of 
art. So, in other parts, due allowance is to be made, having 
regard to their position, in respect of the heavens. This, 
however, is determined by consideration of the nature of 
the place and observations made on the limbs and bodies 
of the inhabitants. For where the sun acts with moderate 
heat, it keeps the body at a temperate warmth, where 


166 


it is hot from the proximity of the sun, all moisture is 
dried up : lastly, in cold countries which are distant from 
the south, the moisture is not drawn out by the heat, 
but the dewy air, insinuating its dampness into the sys- 
tem, increases the size of the body, and makes the voice 
more grave. This is the reason why the people of the 
north are so large in stature, so light in complexion, and 
have straight red hair, blue eyes, and are full of blood, 
for they are thus formed by the abundance of the 
moisture, and the coldness of their country. ‘Those who 
live near the equator, and are exactly under the sun’s 
course, are, owing to its power, low in stature, of dark 
complexion, with curling hair, black eyes, weak legs, de- 
ficient in quantity of blood. And this deficiency of blood 
makes them timid when opposed in battle, but they bear 
excessive heat and fevers without fear, because their 
limbs are nourished ‘by heat. ‘Those, however, born in 
northern countries are timid and weak when attacked by 
fever, but from their sanguineous habit of body more 
courageous in battle. The pitch of the voice is various, 
and of different qualities in different nations. For the 
eastern and western boundaries round the level of the 
earth, where the upper is divided from the under part of 
the world, and the earth appears to be balanced by na- 
ture, are designated by a circle which mathematicians 
call the horizon; keeping this circumstance in mind, 
from the edge on the northern extremity, let a line be 
drawn to that above the southern axis, and therefrom 
another in an oblique direction up to the pole near the 
northern stars, and we shall immediately perceive the 
principle of the triangular instrument called by the Greeks 
cwp{3vxy. Thus the people who live in the region near 


167 


the lower point, that is in the southern part towards the 
equator, from the small elevation of the pole have shrill 
and high toned voices similar to those on the instrument 
_near the angle; next come those whose tone of voice is 
of lower pitch, such as the people in the central parts 
of Greece. Thus, proceeding by degrees from the 
middle to the northern extremity, the voice of the in- 
habitants gradually becomes of lower pitch. Herein we 
may perceive how the system of the world is harmoni- 
cally arranged, by the obliquity of the zodiac from the 
appropriate temperature of the sun. Hence those who are 
in the middle, between the equator and the pole, are 
gifted with a middle pitch of voice, similar to the tones 
in the central part of the musical diagram. Advancing 
to the northern nations, where the pole is more elevated, 
the people, from an increased quantity of moisture, na- 
turally possess lower toned voices, similar to the hypaté 
and proslambanomenos. And finally, those nations ex- 
tending from the middle regions to the south have shrill 
and acute voices similar to the tones of paraneté and 
neté. That the tone of the voice is rendered deeper by 
the damp nature of a place, and higher by its being of a 
hot nature, may be proved by the following experiment. 
Let two vases be selected, both equally baked in a furnace, 
of equal weight, and yielding the same tone, and one of 
them be immersed in water and then taken out: let 
both of them be then struck, and a great difference will 
be perceived in the tones they yield, as well as an inequa- 
lity in their weight. Thus it is with the human body ; 
for although all men are born of the same form, and 
under the same heaven, yet some from the warmth of 
the climate are shrill in voice, and others from a super- 


168 


abundance of moisture have a low tone of voice. So 
moreover, from the clearness of the atmosphere, aided 
also by the intense heat, the southern nations are more 
ready and quick in expedients: but. the northern na- 
tions, oppressed by a gross atmosphere, and cooled by 
the moisture of the air, are of duller intellect. That this 
is so, may be proved from the nature of serpents, which 
in the hot season, when the cold is dispelled by the heat, 
move with great activity, but in the rainy and winter 
seasons, from the coldness of the air, they become torpid. 
Hence it is not surprising that man’s intellect should be 
sharpened by heat and blunted by a cold atmosphere. 
Though, however, the southern nations are quick in un- 
derstanding, and sagacious in council, yet in point of 
valour they are inferior, for the sun absorbs their animal 
spirits. Those, on the contrary, who are natives of cold 
climates are more courageous in war, and fearlessly at- 
tack their enemies, though, rushing on without consider- 
ation or judgment, their attacks are repulsed and their 
designs frustrated. Since, then, nature herself has pro- 
vided throughout the world, that all nations should differ 
according to the variation of the climate, she has also been 
pleased that in. the middle of the earth, and of all nations, 
the Roman people should be seated; on this account 
the people of Italy excel in both qualities, strength of 
body and vigour of mind. For as the planet Jupiter 
moves through a temperate region between the ‘fiery 
Mars and icy Saturn, so Italy enjoys a temperate and 
unequalled climate between the north on one side, and 
the south on the other. Hence it is, that by strata- 
gem she is enabled to repress the attacks of the bar- 
barians, and by her strength to overcome the subtilty of 


169 


southern nations. Divine providence has so ordered it 
that the metropolis of the Roman people is placed in an 
excellent and temperate climate, whereby they have be- 
come the masters of the world. Since, then, it is climate 
which causes the variety in different countries, and the 
dispositions of the inhabitants, their stature and qualities 
are naturally dissimilar, there can be no doubt that the 
arrangement of buildings should be suitable to the quali- 
ties of the nations and people, as nature herself wisely and 
clearly indicates. To the best of my power I have made 
general observations on the properties of places as de- 
pendent upon nature, and I have given explanations for 
adapting buildings to the wants of different nations ac- 
cording to the sun’s course and the inclination of the 
pole. I shall now, therefore, briefly explain the sym- 
metry, as well of the whole, as of the detail of private 
dwellings. 


170 


CHAPTER II. 


OF THE PROPORTIONS OF PRIVATE BUILDINGS TO 
SUIT THE NATURE OF THEIR SITES. 


Noruine requires the architect’s care more than the due 
proportions of buildings. When the proportions are ad- 
justed, and the dimensions found by calculation, then it 
is the part of a skilful man to consider the nature of the 
place, the purpose of the building, and the beauty of it ; 
and either by diminutions or additions to find expedients, 
by means of which the appearance may not be injured by 
the additions to, or diminutions of, the established propor- 
tions that may be necessary. Foran object under the eye 
will appear very different from the same object placed above 
it; in an inclosed space, very different from the same in 
an open space. In all these matters it requires great judg- 
ment to adopt the proper means, since the eye does not 
always form to itself the true image of an object, and the 
mind is often deceived by the false impression. ‘Thus in 
painted scenery, though the surface is a perfect plane, the 
columns seem to advance forward, the projections of the 
mutuli are represented, and figures seem to stand out. 
The oars of ships, also, though the parts immersed in the 
water are really straight, have the appearance of being 
broken; those parts only appearing straight which are 
above the level of the water. ‘This arises from the part 
immersed in the water reflecting its image in an undulat- 
ing state up to the surface of the water, through a trans- 
parent medium, which, being there agitated, gives the 
oar a broken appearance. But whether the sight 


171 


arises from the impression which images make on the 
eye, or by an effusion of visual rays from the eye, as na- 
turalists contend, it is certain that, in some way or other, 
the eye is often deceived. Since, then, some images are 
falsely conveyed, and others appear different from what 
they really are, I think it beyond doubt, that, according 
to nature and the circumstances of the place, diminutions 
or additions should be made, so that no defect may be ap- 
parent. To do this, however, is the result of genius, not 
the result of learning. The proportion of the symmetries 
is, therefore, to be first settled, so that thereon the ne- 
cessary changes may be made with certainty. ‘Then the 
length and breadth of the plan of the work is to be set 
out, and the parts thereof; after which, the proportions 
are adjusted as propriety requires, so that the pleasing 
arrangement may not be disturbed. The method of 
effecting this I am now about to describe, and shall 
begin with the court (cavaedium). 


“172 


CHAPTER III. 


OF COURTS (CAVAEDIA). 


Tuere are five species of courts; which receive their 
names from their forms. ‘The Tuscan, Corinthian, the 
Tetrastylén (with four columns), the Displuviatum (open 
at top), and the Testudinatum (roofed). The Tuscan 
caveedia are those in*which the beams across the breadth 
of the court have trimmers (interpensivee) to them, and 
valleys (colliquiz) from the internal angles of the walls to 
the angles formed by the junctions of the beams and 
trimmers. Thus the rain falls into the middle of the 
court from the eaves of the rafters. In the Corinthian ca- 
vedium, the beams and uncovered middle of the court 
(compluvium) are as in the foregoing; but the beams 
around are detached from the walls, and rest on columns. 
The tetrastyle are those wherein columns are placed un- 
der the beams at the angles, which give strength and 
support to the beams; for thus they are not so liable to 
sag with their own weight, nor are they loaded by the 
trimmers. The displuviatum is that in which the water 
is carried off above the gutter plates (deliquiae), which 
support the body of the roof. These are useful for 
winter apartments, because the compluvium being up- 
right, the light of the triclinia is not obstructed. But 
they are constantly in want of repair; for the pipes 
which receive the water from the eaves being against the 
walls, and not capable of taking, at once, the water 
which should be carried off, it overflows from the check 


173 


it meets, and injures the wood-work and walls in this 
sort of buildings. The roofed court is used when the 


span is not great, and large dwelling-rooms are made in 
the floor over it. 


174, 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF COURTS (ATRIA), WINGS OR AISLES (AL), THE 
TABLINUM AND THE PERISTYLIUM. 


Tue length and breadth of courts (atria) are regulated in 
three ways. The first is, when the length is divided into 
five parts, and three of them are given to the width. The 
second, when it is divided into three parts, and two are 
given to the width. The third is, when a square being 
described whose side is equal to the width, a diagonal 
line is drawn therein, the length of which is to be equal 
to the length of the atrium. ‘Their height, to the under- 
side of the beams, is to be one-fourth less than the 
length; the remaining fourth is assigned for the propor- 
tion of the lacunaria and roof above the beams. The 
width of the ale, on the right and left, when the atrium 
is from thirty to forty feet long, is to be one third part 
thereof. From forty to fifty feet, the length must be di- 
vided into three parts and a half; of these, one is given 
to the ale: but when the length is from fifty to sixty 
feet, a fourth part thereof is given to the ale. From 
sixty to eighty feet, the length is divided into four parts 
and a half, of which one part is the width of the ale. 
From eighty feet to one hundred, the length is divided 
into five parts, and one of them is the true width of the 
alz. The lintel beams (trabes liminares) are placed at a 
height which will make the breadths and heights equal. 
The muniment-room (tablinum), if the width of the atrium 
be twenty feet, is to be two thirds thereof. If from thirty 
to forty feet wide, one half is assigned to the tablinum. 


175 


From forty to sixty feet, the width is divided into five parts, 
and two given to thetablinum. The proportions of small 
atria cannot be the same as those of large ones ; for if the 
proportions of the smaller be used in the greater, the 
tablinum, as well as the ale, would be inconvenient : and 
if those of the larger be used in the smaller, their parts 
would be large and clumsy. I therefore thought it right 
to describe, with precision, their respective proportions, 
so that they might be both commodious and beautiful. 
The height of the tablinum to the beam is one eighth 
part more than the breadth. ‘The lacunaria are carried 
up one-third of the width higher. The passages (fauces) 
towards courts which are on a smaller scale, are to be 
one-third less than the width of the tablinum; but if 
larger, they are to be one half. The statues, with their 
ornaments, are to be placed at a height equal to the width 
of the ala. The proportions of the height and width of 
doors, if Doric, are to be formed in that method: if Ionic, 
according to the Ionic mode, agreeably to the rules given 
for doors in the fourth book. The width of the unco- 
vered part of the atrium (impluvii lumen) is not to be 
less than a fourth nor more than one-third of the width 
of the same ; its length will be in proportion to that of 
the atrium. The cloister (peristylium) is transversely 
one third part longer than across. The columns are 
to be as high as the width of the portico; and the in- 
tercolumniations of the peristylia are not to be less 
than three nor more than four diameters of the columns. 
But if the columns ofa peristylium are of the Doric order, 
modules are taken, and the triglyphs arranged thereby, 
as described in the fourth book. 


176 


CHAPTER V. | 


OF TRICLINIA, GCI, EXEDRZ, PINACOTHECH AND 
THEIR DIMENSIONS. 


Tue length of a triclinium is to be double its breadth. 
The height of all oblong rooms is thus regulated: add 
their length and breadth together, of which take one 
half, and it will give the dimension of the height. If, 
however, exedree or ceci are square, their height is 
equal to once and a half their width. Pinacothece (pic- 
ture rooms), as well as exedre, should be of large di- 
mensions. ‘The Corinthian tetrastyle and Egyptian ceci 
(halls) are to be proportioned similarly to the triclinia, 
as above described ; but inasmuch as columns are used in 
them, they are built of larger dimensions. There is this 
difference between the Corinthian and Egyptian cecus. 
The former has a single order of columns, standing either 
on a podium or on the ground, and over it architraves 
and cornices, either of wood or plaster, and a semicircu- 
lar ceiling above the cornice. In the Egyptian cecus, 
over the lower columns is an architrave, from which 
to the surrounding wall is a boarded and paved floor, so as 
to form a passage round it in the open air. Then per- 
pendicularly over the architrave of the lower columns, 
columns one fourth smaller are placed. Above their ar- 
chitraves and cornices they are decorated with ceilings, 
and windows are placed between the upper columns. Thus 
they have the appearance of basilicee, rather than of Co- 
rinthian triclinia. 


177 


CHAPTER VI. 
OF THE GRECIAN CECI. 


Cicr are sometimes constructed differently from those of 
Italy; the Greeks call these zv@izqvos. They face the 
north, with a prospect towards the gardens, and have doors 
in the middle. They are of such length and breadth that 
two tables (triclinia) with their accessories may stand in 
them opposite to each other. The windows, as well on 
the right as on the left, are to open like doors, so that 
the verdure may be seen through them whilst the guests 
recline on the couches. The height of them is equal to 
once and a half the width. In these apartments, con- 
venience must regulate the proportions. If the windows 
are not obscured by high walls adjoining, they may be 
easily contrived. But if any impediment occur, either 
through nearness of adjoining buildings or other obstruc- 
tion, some ingenuity and skill will be requisite to diminish 
or increase their established proportions, so as to produce 
a pleasing effect not apparently different therefrom. 


178 


CHAPTER VIiI.° 


OF THE PROPER ASPECTS OF DIFFERENT SORTS OF 
BUILDINGS. 


I saxty now describe how the different sorts of build- 
ings aré placed as regards their aspects. Winter tri- 
clinia and baths are to face the winter west, because the 
afternoon light is wanted in them ; and not less so because 
the setting sun casts its rays upon them, and by its heat 
warms the aspect towards the evening hours. Bed cham- 
bers and libraries should be towards the east, for their pur- 
poses require the morning light: in libraries the books 
are in this aspect preserved from decay; those that are 
towards the south and west-are injured by the worm and 
by the damp, which the moist winds generate and nou- 
rish, and spreading the damp, make the books mouldy. 
Spring and autumn triclinia should be towards the east, 
for then, if the windows be closed till the sun has 
passed the meridian, they are cool at the time they are 
wanted for use. Summer triclinia should be towards the 
north, because that aspect, unlike others, is not heated du- 
ring the summer solstice, but, on account of being turned 
away from the course of the sun, is always cool, and 
affords health and refreshment. Pinacothecze should have 
the same aspect, as well as rooms for embroidering and 
painting, that the colours used therein, by the equability 
of the light, may preserve their brilliancy. 


179 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF THE FORMS OF HOUSES SUITED TO DIFFERENT 
RANKS OF PERSONS. 


Tue aspects proper for each part being appropriated, we 
must determine the situation of the private rooms for the 
master of the house, and those which are for general use, 
and for the guests. Into those which are private no one 
enters, except invited; such are bed chambers, triclinia, 
baths, and others of a similar nature. —The common rooms, 
on the contrary, are those entered by any one, even un- 
asked. Such are the vestibule, the caveedium, the peri- 
stylia, and those which are for similar uses. Hence, for a 
person of middling condition in life, magnificent vestibules 
are not necessary, nor tablina, nor atria, because persons 
of that description are those who seek favours which are 
granted by the higher ranks. Those, however, who have 
to lay up stores that are the produce of the country, should 
have stalls and shops in their vestibules: under their houses 
they should have vaults (crypte), granaries (horrea), store 
rooms (apothece), and other apartments, suited rather to 
preserve such produce, than to exhibit a magnificent ap- 
pearance. The houses of bankers and receivers of the re- 
venue may be more commodious and elegant, and well se- 
cured from the attacks of thieves. For advocates, and men 
of literature, houses ought to be still handsomer and more 
spacious, to allow the reception of persons on consultations. 
But for nobles, who in bearing honours, and discharging 
the duties of the magistracy, must have much intercourse 
with the citizens, princely vestibules must be provided, 


180 


lofty atria, and spacious peristylia, groves, and extensive 
walks, finished in a magnificent style. In addition to 
these, libraries, pinacothece, and basilicee, of similar form 
to those which are made for the public use, are to be 
provided ; for in the houses of the noble, the affairs of the 
public, and the decision and judgment of private causes 
are often determined. If, therefore, houses are erected, 
thus adapted to the different classes of society, as di- 
rected in the first book under the head of propriety, 
there will be nothing to reprehend, for they will be 
suitable to their destination. These rules are no less 
applicable to country than to town dwellings, except 
that in town the atria must be close to the gates, where- 
as, in the country villa, the peristylium is near the en- 
trance, then the atrium, with paved porticos round it 
looking towards the palestra and walk. I have thus 
briefly described the proportions of town residences as I 
promised. I shall now proceed to those of houses in the, 


country, so that they may afford the requisite accommo- 
dation. 


181 


CHAPTER IX. 


OF THE PROPORTIONS OF HOUSES IN THE COUNTRY. 


First of all the salubrity of the situation must be ex- 
amined, according to the rules given in the first book for 
the position of a city, and the site may be then deter- 
mined. ‘Their size should be dependent on the extent of 
the land attached to them, and its produce. The courts 
and their dimensions will be determined by the number 
of cattle, and the yokes of oxen employed. The kitchen 
is to be placed in the warmest part of the court ; adjoin- 
ing to this are placed the stalls for oxen, with the mangers 
at the same time towards the fire and towards the east, for 
oxen with their faces to the light and fire do not be- 
come rough-coated. Hence it is that husbandmen, 
who are altogether ignorant of the nature of aspects, 
think that oxen should look towards no other region than 
that of the east. The width of the stalls should not be less 
than ten feet, nor more than fifteen; lengthwise, each 
yoke is to be at least seven feet. The baths should be 
contiguous to the kitchen, for they will be then service- 
able also for agricultural purposes. The press-room 
should also be near the kitchen, for the convenience of 
expressing the oil from the olive; and near that the 
cellar, lighted from the north, for if it have any opening 
through which the heat of the sun can penetrate, the 
wine affected by the heat becomes vapid. The oil room 
is to be lighted from the southern and warmer parts of 
the heaven, that the oil may not be congealed, but be 
preserved liquid by means of a gentle heat. Its size must 


182 


be proportioned to the quantity of fruit yielded on the 
estate, and the number of vessels, which, if of twenty 
amphore (cullearia), are about four feet diameter. The 
press, if worked by levers instead of screws, should 
occupy an apartment not less than forty feet long, so 
as to allow room for the revolution of the levers. Its 
width must not be less than sixteen feet, which will give 
ample room to turn and expedite the work. If two presses 
are employed, the width must be twenty-four feet. The 
sheep and goat houses are to be constructed so that not 
less than an area of four feet and a half, nor more than 
six feet, be allotted to each animal. The granaries are 
raised, and must be towards the north or east, so that the 
grain may not heat, but be preserved by the coolness 
of air; if towards other aspects, the weevil, and other 
insects injurious to corn, will be generated. The stable, 
especially in the villa, should: be in the warmest place, 
and not with an aspect towards the fire, for if horses are 
stalled near a fire, their coats soon become rough. Hence 
those stalls are excellent which are away from the kitchen 
in the open space towards the east ; for when the weather 
is clear in the winter season, the cattle brought thither in 
the morning to feed, may be then rubbed down. The 
barn, hay-room, meal-room, and mill, may be without the 
boundaries of the villa, which will be thereby ren- 
dered more secure from fire. If villas are required to be 
erected of more magnificence than ordinary, they must be 
formed according to the proportions laid down for town 
houses above described, but with the precautions neces- 
sary to prevent the purposes of a country house being 
interfered with. Care should be taken that all build- 
ings are well lighted: in those of the country this point 


183 


is easily accomplished, because the wall of a neighbour 
is not likely to interfere with the light. But in the 
city the height of party walls, or the narrowness of 
the situation may obscure the light. In this case we 
should proceed as follows. In that direction from which 
the light is to be received, let a line be drawn from the 
top of the obstructing wall, to that part where the light 
is to be introduced, and if, looking upwards along that 
line, a large space of open sky be seen, the light may be 
obtained from that quarter without fear of obstruction 
thereof; but if there be any impediment from beams, 
lintels, or floors, upper lights must be opened, and the 
light thus introduced. In short, it may be taken as a 
general rule, that where the sky is seen, in such part 
apertures are to be left for windows, so that the building 
may be light. Necessary as light may be in triclinia and 
other apartments, not less is it so in passages, ascents, 
and staircases, in which persons carrying loads frequently 
meet each other. I have explained to the best of my 
ability the arrangement used in our buildings, so that 
it may be clearly known by builders, and in order that 
the Greek arrangement may be also understood, I shall 
now briefly explain it. 


184 


CHAPTER X. 


OF THE ARRANGEMENT AND PARTS OF GRECIAN | 
HOUSES. 


Tue Greeks using no atrium, and not building as we do, 
make a passage, of no great breadth, from the entrance 
gate, on one side whereof the stable is placed, and on the 
other the porter’s rooms, which immediately adjoin the 
inner gates. ‘The space between the two gates, is, by the 
Greeks, called Svgweciov. From this you enter into the 
peristylium, which has a portico on three sides. On that 
side facing the south are two ante, at a considerable dis- 
tance apart, which carry beams, and the recess behind 
them is equal to one-third less than their distance from 
each other. This part is called seorra¢ (prostas) by 
some, and by others rageeras (parastas). Interior to 
this the great cecus is placed, in which the mistress of the 
family sits with the spinsters. On the right and left of 
the prostas are the bed-chambers, of which one is called 
the thalamus, the other the antithalamus. Round the 
porticos are the triclinia for common use, the bed-cham- 
bers, and other apartments for the family. This part 
of the building receives the name of Gyneconitis. Ad- 
joining this is a larger house, with a more spacious 
peristylium, in which there are four porticos equal in 
height, though that towards the south may have higher 
columns. Ifa peristylium have one portico higher than 
the rest, it is called a Rhodian portico. These houses 
have magnificent vestibules, elegant gates, and the por- 
ticos of the peristylia are decorated with stucco and 


185 


plastering, and with inlaid ceilings. In the porticos to 
the north the cyziceni, triclinia, and pinacothece, are 
situated. The libraries are on the east side, the exedrae on 
the west, and to the south are square ceci, of such am- 
ple dimensions that there is room therein for four tricli- 
nia and the attendants on them, as well as for the games. 
These ceci are used only for entertainments given to men; 
for it is not the practice with women to recline on a couch 
at dinner. ‘The peristylium, and this part of the house, is 
called Andronitis, because the men employ themselves 
therein without interruption from the women. On the 
right and left, moreover, are small sets of apartments, 
each having its own door, triclinium, and bed-chamber, so 
that on the arrival of guests they need not enter the peri- 
stylium, but are received in rooms (hospitalia) appro- 
priated to their occupation. For when the Greeks were 
more refined, and possessed greater wealth, they provided 
a separate table with triclinia and bed-chambers for their 
guests. On the day of their arrival they were invited 
to dinner, and were afterwards supplied with poultry, 
eggs, herbs, fruits, and other produce of the country. 
Hence the painters gave the name of Xenia to those pic- 
tures which represent the presents made to guests. Mas- 
ters of families therefore, living in these apartments, were 
quite, as it were, at home, being at liberty to do as they 
pleased therein. Between the peristylium and the lodging 
rooms are passages, which are called Mesaule, from 
their situation between two aule (halls). By us these 
are called Andrones. But it is remarkable that this ap- 
pellation seems to suit neither the Greek nor Latin terms. 
For the Greeks call the oeci, in which male guests are 
entertained, &»deaves, because the women do not enter 
BB 


186 


them. There are other discrepancies similar to this, as 
the xystus, prothyrum, telamones, and others of that 
sort: Zverds, in Greek means a portico of large dimen- 
sions, in which athlete exercise in the winter. season: 
we, on the contrary, call by the name of xysti those open 
walks which the Greeks call zegsdedusdes. The vesti- 
bule in front of a house, by the gates, is called prothyrum 
by the Greeks ; we, however, give the name of prothyrum 
to that which the Greeks call diczévgov (diathyrum). We 
call telamones those figures placed for the support of 
mutuli or cornices, but on what account is not found 
in history. The Greeks, however, call them &rAavres 
(atlantes). Atlas, according to history, is represented in 
the act of sustaining the universe, because he is said to 
have been the first person who explained to mankind the 
sun’s course, that of the moon, the rising and setting of 
the stars, and the celestial motions, by the power of his 
mind and the acuteness of his understanding. Hence it 
is, that, by painters and sculptors, he is, for his exertions, 
represented as bearing the world: and his daughters, 
the Atlantides, whom we call Vergiliz, and the Greeks, 
IlAeedes, were honoured by being placed among the 
constellations. I mention these things, not to induce 
persons to change the names at this period, but that 
they may be known to philologists. I have explained 
the different arrangement of buildings after the prac- 
tice of the Italians, as well as that of the Greeks, by 
giving the proportions and divisions of each; and, as we 
have already laid down the principles of beauty and pro- 
priety, we shall now consider the subject of strength, by 
which a building may be without defects, and durable. 


187 


CHAPTER XI. 
OF THE STRENGTH OF BUILDINGS. 


In those buildings which are raised from the level of 
the ground, if the foundations are laid according to the 
rules given in the preceding books for the construction 
of walls and theatres, they will be very durable; but if 
under-ground apartments (hypogea) and vaults are to be 
built, their foundations must be thicker than the walls of 
the upper part of the edifice, which, as well as the pilas- 
ters and columns, must stand vertically over the middle 
of the foundations below, so that they may be on the 
solid part. For if the weight of the walls or the columns 
have a false bearing, they cannot last long. It is, more- 
over, a good practice to place posts under the lintels, 
between the piers and pilasters; for when lintels and 
beams are loaded, they sag in the middle, and cause frac- 
tures in the work above: but when posts are introduced 
and wedged up under them, the beams are prevented from 
sagging and being injured. Care also should be taken 
to discharge the weight of walls by arches consisting 
of wedges concentrically arranged ; for if these are turn- 
ed over beams or lintels, the beam, being relieved from 
the weight, will not sag; and when afterwards it is de- 
cayed through age, it may be easily replaced, without 
the necessity of shores. So in buildings, which are 
constructed on piers and arches, consisting of wedges 
whose joints are concentric, the outer piers should be 


188 


wider than the others, that they may have more power 
to resist the action of the wedges, which, loaded with 
the weight of the superincumbent wall, press towards 
the centre, and have a tendency to thrust out the 
abutments. But if the outer piers be of large.dimensions, 
by restraining the power of the wedges they will give 
stability to the work. Having paid due attention to these 
points, care must next be taken, and particularly is it to 
be observed, that the work be carried up perpendicularly 
and without inclination in any part. ‘The greatest at- 
tention must be bestowed on the lower parts of the 
walls, which are often damaged by the earth lying 
against them. ‘This is not always of the same weight 
as in summer; for in the winter season, imbibing a great 
quantity of water from the rain, it increases in weight 
and bulk, and breaks and extrudes the walls. To re- 
medy this evil, the thickness of the wall must be pro- 
portioned to the weight of earth against it, and, in 
front, counterforts (anterides) or buttresses (erisme) 
are carried up with the wall, at a distance from each other 
equal to the height of the foundations, and of the same 
width as the foundations. ‘Their projection at bottom 
is equal in thickness to the wall, and diminishing as 
they rise, their projection at top is equal to the thick- 
ness of the work: adjoining the inside of the wall, to- 
wards the mass of ground, teeth similar to those of a 
saw are constructed, each of which projects from the wall 
a distance equal to the height of the foundations, and 
their thickness is to be equal to that of the foundation 
wall. An extent equal to the height of the foundations 
is taken at the outer angles, and marked by poitits on 


189 


each side; and through these a diagonal is drawn, on 
which a wall is carried up, and from the middle of this 
another is attached to the angle of the wall. The teeth 
and diagonal walls being thus constructed, will discharge 
the weight of earth from the wall, by distributing its 
pressure over a large surface. Thus I have described 
the precautions to be taken at the beginning of a build- 
ing, to prevent defects. The same importance does not 
attach to the roof, with its beams and rafters, because 
if these at any time are found defective, they may be 
easily changed. I have also explained how those parts 
which are not built solid are to be strengthened. The 
quality of the materials it is not in the power of the ar- 
chitect to control: for the same species of materials are 
not found in every place; and it depends on the em- 
ployer whether the building shall be of brick, of rough 
stone, or of squared stone. The merit of every work 
is considered under three heads; the excellence of the 
workmanship, and the magnificence and design thereof. 
When a work is conducted as magnificently as pos- 
sible, its cost is admired; when well built, the skill of the 
workman is praised; when beautifully, the merit belongs 
to the architect, on account of the proportion and sym- 
metry which enter into the design. These will ever be ap- 
parent when he submits to listen to the opinions even of 
workmen, and ignorant persons. For other men, as well as 
architects, can distinguish the good from the bad; but 
between the ignorant man and the architect there is this 
difference, that the first can form no judgment till he 
sees the thing itself; whereas the architect, having 
a perfect idea in his mind, can perceive the beauty, 


190 


convenience, and propriety of his design, before it is 
begun. I have laid down as clearly as I could the rules 
necessary for the construction of private buildings: in 
the following book I shall treat of the method of finish- 
ing them, so that they may be elegant and durable. 





THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE SEVENTH. 


= | 


Wel ° ee X: 
LEB, hh 
































INTRODUCTION. 


Tue antients by means of writing established the wise 
and useful practice of handing down to posterity their 
.sentiments on different subjects, so that not only 
those might not be lost, but that by their works con- 
tinually increasing, a gradual advancement might be made 
to the highest point of learning. Our obligations to them 
therefore are great and many, from their not having sul- 
lenly kept their knowledge to themselves, but on the 


192 


contrary, having recorded their opinions on every sub- 
ject. Had they omitted to do this, we should not have 
known what happened in Troy, nor the sentiments of 
Thales, Democritus, Anaxagoras, Xenophanes, and other 
physiologists respecting the nature of things; nor the 
system of ethics laid down by Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, 
Zeno, Epicurus, and other philosophers. Of the actions 
of Croesus, Alexander, Darius, and other kings, and the 
principles on which they acted, we should have been un- 
informed, unless the antients had handed them down to 
posterity in their writings. As we are indebted to these, 
so we are on the contrary bound to censure those, who, 
borrowing from others, publish as their own that of which — 
they are not the authors; not less are they censurable, 
who, distorting the meaning of an author, glory in their 
perversion of it; indeed they deserve punishment for 
their dishonest conduct. It is said that this practice was 
strictly punished by the antients; I do not therefore think 
it foreign to the purpose to relate from history the result 
of some examples made by them. The Attalic kings, 
stimulated by their great love for philology, having 
established an excellent public library at Pergamus, 
Ptolemy, actuated by zeal and great desire for the fur- 
therance of learning, collected with no less care, a simi- 
lar one for the same purpose at Alexandria, about the 
same period. When by dint of great labour he had com- 
pleted it, he was not satisfied, unless, like the seed of the . 
earth, it was to go on increasing. He therefore insti- 
tuted games to the Muses and Apollo, and in imitation of 
those in which wrestlers contended, he decreed rewards 
and honors to the victorious in literature. These being 
established, when the time of the games arrived, learned 


193 


judges were to be selected for the decisions. The king 
having chosen six, and not readily finding a seventh, 
applied to those persons who had the care of the library, 
to ascertain whether they knew any one fit for the pur- 
pose. They told him that there was a certain man named 
Aristophanes, who with great labour and application was 
day after day reading through the books in the library. At 
the celebration of the games, Aristophanes was summoned 
and took his seat among those allotted for the judges. The 
first that contended were the poets, who recited their 
compositions, and the-people unanimously signified to the 
judges the piece which they preferred. When the judges 
were required to decide, six of them agreed to award the 
first prize to him who had most pleased the multitude, 
and the second prize to’ some other candidate. . The 
opinion of Aristophanes being required, he observed that 
the best poet had pleased the people the least. The king 
and the whole multitude expressed their great indigna- 
tion at this opinion, but he rose and besought that they 
would allow him to speak. Silence being obtained, he 
told them that one only of the competitors was a poet, 
that the others had recited other men’s compositions, and 
that the judges ought not to decide upon thefts but upon 
compositions. The people were astonished, and the king 
in doubt; but Aristophanes relying on his memory, quoted 
a vast number of books on certain shelves in the library, 
and comparing them with what had been recited, made 
the writers confess that they had stolen from them. The 
king then ordered them to be proceeded against for the 
theft, and after their condemnation dismissed them with 
ignominy. Aristophanes, however, was honoured with 
great rewards, and appointed librarian. Some time af- 
ec 


194 


terwards Zoilus of Macedonia, who assumed the cogno- 
men of Homeromastix, came to Alexandria, and recited 
before the king his compositions in derogation of the 
IJiad and Odyssey. When Ptolemy perceived that the 
father of poetry and all philology, whose works are in 
esteem throughout all nations, was, because out of the 
reach of reply, abused by this man, he was enraged and 
did not deign to answer him. Zoilus, however, remain- 
ing some time longer in the country, oppressed with po- 
verty, besought the king to bestow something on him. 
The king is said to have answered, that Homer, who 
had been dead more than a thousand years, had been the 
means during that period of affording a livelihood to thou- 
sands; that he, therefore, who boasted that he possessed 
greater talent, ought to be able to support, not only him- 
self, but many other persons. Having been condemned 
as a parricide, his death is variously related. Some have 
written that he was crucified by Philadelphus, some that 
he was stoned at Chios, others that he was burnt alive . 
at Smyrna. Whichever of these circumstances occurred 
he richly deserved it, for that person does not seem to 
have merited a better fate, who reflects on those that are 
beyond the reach of hearing and explaining what is said 
of their writings. I, therefore, O Cesar, do not publish 
this work, merely prefixing my name to a treatise which 
of right belongs to others, nor think of acquiring repu- 
tation by finding fault with the works of any one. On 
the contrary, I own myself under the highest obligations 
to all those authors, who by their great ingenuity have 
at various times on different subjects, furnished us with 
copious materials ; from which, as from a fountain, con- 
verting them to our own use, we are enabled to write 


195 


more fully and expediently, and, trusting to whom we are 
prepared to strike out something new. ‘Thus adhering 
to the principles which I found in those of their works 
adapted to my purpose, I have endeavoured to advance 
further. Agatharcus, at the time when Aéschylus taught 
at Athens the rules of tragic poetry, was the first who 
contrived scenery, upon which subject he left a treatise. 
This led Democritus and Anaxagoras, who wrote there- 
on, to explain how the points of sight and distance 
ought to guide the lines, as in nature, to a centre; so 
that by means of pictorial deception, the real appearances 
of buildings appear on the scene, which, painted on 
a flat vertical surface, seem, nevertheless, to advance and 
recede. Silenus afterwards produced a treatise on the 
symmetry of Doric buildings; Theodorus, on the Doric 
temple of Jupiter in Samos ; Ctesiphon and Metagenes, 
on that of the Ionic order in the temple of Diana at 
Ephesus. Phileos wrote a volume on the Ionic temple 
of Minerva at Priene, and Ictinus and Carpion on the 
Doric temple of Minerva at Athens, on the Acropolis; 
Theodorus Phoceus on the vaulted temple at Delphi; 
Philo on the symmetry of temples, and on the arsenal at 
the Pireeus; Hermogenes on the Ionic pseudodipteral 
temple at Magnesia, and the monopteral one of Father 
Bacchus at Teos. Argelius wrote on the proportions 
of buildings of the Corinthian order, and on the Ionic 
temple of A®sculapius at Tralles, which he is said to 
have built; Satyrus and Phyteus, who were extremely 
fortunate, on the Mausoleum, to which some contributed 
their exertions whose talents have been admired in all 
ages, and who have gained lasting reputation. Each 
front was assigned to a separate artist, to ornament 


196 


and try his skill thereon. Those employed were Leochares, 
Bryaxes, Scopas, and Praxiteles; some say that Timotheus 
was employed. The great art displayed by these men, 
caused this work to be ranked among the seven wonders. 
Besides these, many of less celebrity have written pre- 
cepts on proportions, as Nexaris, Theocydes, Demophilos, 
Pollis, Leonides, Silanion, Melampus, Sarnacus, and Eu- 
phranor. Many on mechanics, as Cliades, Archytas, Ar- 
chimedes, Ctesibius, Nymphodorus, Philo Byzantius, Di- 
philus, Democles, Charidas, Polyidus, Phyros, Agesistra- 
tus. From the commentaries of these, what I thought use- 
ful I have thrown together, and that the more especially 
because I observe that on this branch the Greeks have 
published much, and our own countrymen very little. 
Fussitius, however, and he was the first, produced an ex- 
cellent work on the subject. Terentius Varro, in his work 
on the nine sciences, includes one on architecture. Pub- 
lius Septimius wrote two. Besides these, I do not recol- 
lect any one that up to this time has written, though we 
have formerly produced great architects, and such as were 
well qualified to have written with elegance. In fact the 
foundations of the temple of Jupiter Olympius at Athens 
were prepared by Antistates, Callzeschrus, Antimachides 
and Porinus, architects employed by Pisistratus, after 
whose death, on account of the troubles which affected the 
republic, the work was abandoned. About two hundred 
years afterwards, king Antiochus, having agreed to sup- 
ply the money for the work, a Roman citizen, named 
Cossutius, designed with great skill and taste the cell, 
the dipteral arrangement of the columns, the cornices, 
and other ornaments. This work is not only universally 
esteemed, but is accounted one of the rarest specimens of 


197 


magnificence. For in four places only are the temples 
embellished with work in marble, and from that circum- 
stance the places are very celebrated, and their excellence 
and admirable contrivance is pleasing to the gods them- 
selves. ‘The first is the temple of Diana at Ephesus, of 
the Ionic order, built by Ctesiphon of Gnosus, and his 
son Metagenes, afterwards completed by Demetrius, a 
priest of Diana, and Pxonius, the Ephesian. The second is 
the temple of Apollo, at Miletus, also of the Ionic order, 
built by the above-named Peonius, and Daphnis, the 
Milesian. ‘The third is the Doric temple of Ceres and 
Proserpine, at Eleusis, the cell of which was built by Ic- 
tinus, of extraordinary dimensions, for the greater conve- 
nience of the sacrifices, and without an exterior colon- 
nade. This structure, when Demetrius Phalereus go- 
verned Athens, was turned by Philus into a prostyle tem- 
ple, with columns in front, and by thus enlarging the 
vestibule, he not only provided accommodation for the 
noviciates, but gave great dignity to its appearance. 
Lastly, in Athens it is said that Cossutius was the archi- 
tect of the temple of Jupiter Olympius, which was of 
large dimensions, and of the Corinthian order and pro- 
portions, as above mentioned. From the pen of this man 
no treatise is extant; nor is it from him alone that such 
would have been less desirable, than from Caius Mu- 
tius, who with great science, and according to the just 
rules of art, completed the cell, columns, and entabla- 
ture of the temples of Honour and Virtue, near the tro- 
phy of Marius, a work, which, had it been of marble, and 
thereby endowed with the splendour and richness which 
the material must have added, would have been reckoned 
among the first and most excellent examples. It there- 


198 


fore appears that our country can boast of as great archi- 
tects as Greece herself, many of them even within 
our own times, but since few have left behind them 
any treatises, I thought it improper to omit any thing, 
and to treat of the different branches in different books. 
In the sixth book I have given rules for building private 
houses ; in this, the seventh, I shall describe their finish- 
ing, and how that is to be rendered both beautiful and 
durable. 


199 


CHAPTER I. 


OF PAVEMENTS. 


I suatt begin with pavements, which are the princi- 
pal of the finishings, and should be executed with the 
greatest care and attention to their solidity. If the 
pavement be made on the ground itself, the soil must 
be examined, to ascertain that it is solid throughout, 
then over it is to be spread and levelled a layer of 
rubbish. But if the whole or any part of the earth be 
loose, it is to be made solid with a rammer. In timber 
floors care must be taken that no wall be built under 
them, so as to touch the under side of the floors; but 
that a space be rather left between them and the floors. 
For if they be made solid, the timber of the floors drying 
and settling, whilst the wall remains in its place, will 
cause fissures in the pavement to the right and left. Care 
must also be taken that holm timber be not used with 
oak; for as soon as oak becomes damp, it warps, and 
causes cracks in the pavement. If, however, holm is not 
to be had, and on that account it be absolutely necessary 
to use oak, it should be cut very thin, by which means 
its power will be diminished, and it will be more easily 
fastened with the nails. Then through the edges of 
the boards two nails are to be driven into every joist, 
so that no part of the edges may warp. I do not mention 
the chestnut, beech, or the farnus, because neither of 
them are durable. The floor being prepared, fern, if at 
hand, and if not, straw, is to be spread over it, so that 
the timber may not be injured by the lime. On this is 


200 


placed a layer of stones, each of which is not to be less 
than will fill a man’s hand. ‘These being spread, the 
pavement is laid thereon. If the rubbish be new, let 
three parts of it be mixed with one of lime; but if from 
old materials, the proportion is five parts to two of lime. 
It is then laid on, and brought to a solid consistence with 
_ wooden beaters and the repeated blows of a number of 
men, till its thickness is about three quarters of a foot. 
Over this is spread the upper layer, composed of three 
parts of potsherds to one of lime, of a thickness not less 
than six inches. Over the upper layer the pavement 
is laid to rule and level, whether composed of slabs or 
of tesseree. When laid with their proper inclination, they 
are to be rubbed off, so that, if in slabs, there may be 
no rising edges of the ovals, triangles, squares, or hexa- 
gons, but that the union of the different joints may be 
perfectly smooth. Ifthe pavement be composed of tes- 
sere, the edges of them should be completely smoothed 
off, or the work cannot be said to be well finished. So, 
also, the Tiburtine tiles, peaked at the points, should be 
laid with care, that there may be neither hollows on them, 
nor ridges, but that they be flat, and rubbed to a regular 
surface. After the rubbing and polishing, marble dust is 
strewed over it, and over that a coat of lime and sand. 
Pavements are, however, more fit to be used in the open 
air, inasmuch as timbers expanding in a moist atmosphere, 
and contracting in a dry one, or sagging in the middle, 
cause defects in the pavement by their settlements. 
Moreover, frosts and ice soon ruin them. But as they 
are sometimes required, they must be made as follows. 
Over the first flooring, boards, others crossing them, 
must be laid, fastened with nails; thus giving a double 


201 


covering to the beams. The pavement is composed of 
two parts of fresh rubbish, one of potsherds, and two 
of lime. After the first layer of rubbish on the floor, 
this composition is spread over it, and pounded into 
a mass not less than a foot thick. The upper layer being 
then spread, as above directed, the pavement, consisting 
of tesserae, each about two inches thick, is laid, with an 
inclination of two inches to ten feet: if thus executed, 
and afterwards properly rubbed, it will not be liable 
to defects. In order that the mortar at the joints may 
not suffer by the frost, at the approach of winter every 
year it should be saturated with the dregs of oil, which 
will prevent the frost affecting it. If extraordinary 
care be required, the pavement is covered with tiles 
two feet square, properly jointed, having small chan- 
nels, of the size of an inch, cut on each edge. These 
are filled with lime tempered with oil, the edges being 
rubbed and pressed together. Thus the lime in the 
channels growing hard, suffers neither water nor any thing 
else to penetrate. After this preparation the upper layer 
is spread and beaten with sticks. Over this either large 
tessere or angle tiles are laid at the inclination above di- 
rected, and work so executed will not be easily injured. 


202 


CHAPTER II. 


OF TEMPERING LIME FOR STUCCO. 


Havine given the necessary directions in respect of pave- 
ment, we shall explain the method of stuccoing. This 
requires that the lime should be of the best quality, and 
tempered a long time before it is wanted for use; so that 
if any of it be not burnt enough, the length of time em- 
ployed in slaking it may bring the whole mass to the 
same consistence. If the lime be not thoroughly slaked, 
but used fresh, it will when spread throw out blisters, 
from the crude particles it contains, which, in execu- 
tion, break and destroy the smoothness of the stucco. 
When the slaking is properly conducted, and care taken 
in the preparation of the materials, a hatchet is used, si- 
milar to that with which timber is hewn, and the lime is 
to be chopped with it, as it lies in the heap. If the 
hatchet strikes upon lumps, the lime is not sufficiently 
slaked, and when the iron of the instrument is drawn out 
dry and clean, it shews that the lime is poor and weak ; 
but if, when extracted, the iron exhibits a glutinous sub- 
stance adhering to it, that not only indicates the richness 
and thorough slaking of the lime, but also shews that it 
has been well tempered. The scaffolding being then pre- 
pared, the compartments of the rooms are executed, ex- 
cept the ceilings be straight. 


+ ltl late 


oct 


203 


CHAPTER III. 


OF STUCCO WORK. 


Wuen arched ceilings are introduced, they must be exe- 
cuted as follows. Parallel ribs are set up, not more than 
two feet apart: those of cypress are preferable, because 
fir is soon injured by the rot and age. These ribs being 
got out to the shape of the curve, they are fixed to the 
ties of the flooring or roof, as the case may require, with 
iron nails. The ties should be of wood not liable to in- 
jury from rot, nor age nor damp, such as box, juniper, 
olive, heart of oak, cypress, and the like, common oak al- 
ways excepted, which, from its liability to warp, causes 
cracks in the work whereon it is employed, The ribs 
having been fixed, Greek reeds, previously bruised, are 
tied to them, in the required form, with cords made of 
the Spanish broom. On the upper side of the arch a 
composition of lime and sand is to be laid, so that if any 
water fall from the floor above or from the roof, it may 
not penetrate. If there be no supply of Greek reeds, the 
common slender marsh-reeds may be substituted, tied to- 
gether with string in bundles of appropriate length, but 
of equal thickness, taking care that the distance from 
one ligature to another be not more than two feet. 
These are bound with cord to the ribs, as above di- 
rected, and made fast with wooden pins. All the remain- 
ing work is to be performed as above described. The 
arches being prepared and interwoven with the reeds, a 
coat is to be laid on the underside. The sand is after- 
wards introduced on it, and it is then polished with 


204: 


chalk or marble. After polishing, the cornices are to be 
run along the springing: they are to be as slender and 
light as possible; for, when large, they settle by their 
own weight, and are incapable of sustaining themselves. 
But little plaster should be used in them, and the stuff 
should be of uniform quality, such as marble-dust ; for 
the former, by setting quickly, does not allow the work 
to dry of one consistence. The practice of the antients, 
in arched ceilings, is also to be avoided; for their cor- — 
nices are dangerous, from their great projection and con- 
sequent weight. Some cornices are of plain, others of 
carved, work. In small private rooms, or where fire or 
many lights are used, they should be plain, to allow 
of being more easily cleaned; in summer rooms, and 
exedra, where the smoke is in such small quantity that 
it can do no injury, carved cornices may be used; for 
white works, from the delicacy of their colour, are always 
soiled, not only with the smoke of the house itself, but 
also with that of the neighbouring buildings. The cor- 
_ nices being completed, the first coat 6f the walls is to be 
laid on as roughly as possible, and, while drying, the sand 
coat thereon ; setting it out, in the direction of the length, 
by the rule and square; in that of the height, perpen- 
dicularly ; and in respect of the angles perfectly square ; 
inasmuch as plastering, thus finished, will be proper for 
the reception of paintings. When the work has dried, a 
second and afterwards a third coat is laid on. The sounder 
the sand coat is, the more durable will the work be. When, 
_ besides the first coat, three sand coats at least have been 
laid, the coat of marble-dust follows; and this is to be so 
prepared, that when used, it does not stick to the trowel, 
but easily comes away from the iron. Whilst the stucco 


205 


is drying, another thin coat is to be laid on: this is to be 
well worked and rubbed, and then still another, finer 
than the last. Thus, with three sand coats, and the 
same number of marble-dust coats, the walls will be ren- 
dered solid, and not liable to cracks or other defects. 
When the work is well beaten, and the under coats made 
solid, and afterwards well smoothed by the hardness and 
whiteness of the marble-powder, it throws out the colours 
mixed therein with great brilliancy. Colours, when used 
with care on damp stucco, do not fade, but are very du- 
rable; because the lime being deprived of its moisture 
in the kiln, and having become porous and dry, readily 
imbibes whatever is placed on it. From their different 
natures the various particles unite in the mixture, and, 
wherever applied, grow solid; and when dry, the whole 
seems composed of one body of the same quality. Stucco, 
therefore, when well executed, does not either become 
dirty, or lose its colour when washed, unless it has been 
carelessly done, or. the colour laid on after the work 
was dry: if however executed as above directed, it will be 
strong, brilliant, and of great durability. When only one 
coat of sand and one of marble-dust are used, it is easily 
broken, from its thinness; and is not, on that account, 
capable of acquiring a brilliant appearance. As a 
silver mirror, made from a thin plate, reflects the image 
confusedly and weakly, whilst from a thick solid plate 
it takes a high polish, and reflects the image brilliantly 
and strongly; so plastering, when thin in substance, 
not only cracks, but soon decays. On the contrary, 
that which is well covered with plaster and stucco, 
and closely laid on, when well polished, not only shines, 
but reflects to the speetators the images falling on it. 


206 


The plasterers of the Greeks thus not only make their 
work hard, by adhering to the above directions, but, 
when the plaster is mixed, cause it to be beaten with 
wooden staves by a great number of men, and use it after 
this preparation. Hence, some persons, cutting slabs of 
plaster from the antient walls, use them for tables; 
and the pieces of plaster so cut out for tables and mir- 
rors, are, of themselves, very beautiful in appearance. If 
stucco be used on timber partitions, which are necessarily 
constructed with spaces between the upright and cross 
pieces, and thence, when smeared with clay, liable to 
swell with the damp, and when dry to shrink, and cause 
cracks, the following expedient should be used. After 
the partition has been covered with the clay, reeds, by the 
side of each other, are to be nailed thereon with bossed 
nails ; and clay having been laid over these, and another 
layer of reeds nailed on the former, but crossed in their 
direction, so that one set is nailed upright, and the other 
horizontally ; then, as above described, the sand and mar- 
ble coats and finishing are to be followed up. The dou- 
ble row of reeds thus crossed on walls prevents all cracks 
and fissures. 


Yaee 
. 


207 


CHAPTER IV. 
OF STUCCO WORK IN DAMP PLACES. 


I nave explained how plastering is executed in dry situa- 
tions; now I shall give directions for it, that it may be 
durable in those that are damp. First, in apartments 
on the ground-floor ; a height of three feet from the pave- 
ment is to have its first coat of potsherds, instead of sand, 
so that this part of the plastering may not be injured by 
the damp. But if a wall is liable to continual moisture, 
another thin wall should be carried up inside it, as far 
within as the case will admit ; and between the two walls 
a cavity is to be left lower than the level of the floor of 
the apartment, with openings for air. At the upper 
part, also, openings must be left; for if the damp do 
not evaporate through these holes above and below, it 
will extend to the new work. The wall is then to be 
plastered with the potsherd mortar, made smooth, and 
then polished with the last coat. If, however, there 
be not space for another wall, channels should never- 
theless be made, and holes therefrom to the open air. 
Then tiles of the size of two feet are placed on one 
side, over the side of the channel, and, on the other 
side, piers are built, of eight inch bricks, on which the 
angles of two tiles may lie, that they may not be more 
distant than one palm from each other. Over them other 
tiles, with returning edges, are fixed upright, from the 
bottom to the top of the wall; and the inner surfaces of 


208 


these are to be carefully pitched over, that they may resist 
the moisture; they are, moreover, to have air-holes 
at bottom, and at top above the vault. They are 
then to be whited over with lime and water, that the 
first coat may adhere to them; for, from the dryness 
they acquire in burning, they would neither take that 
coat nor sustain it, but for the lime thus interposed, 
which joins and unites them. The first coat being laid on, 
the coat of pounded potsherds is spread, and the remainder 
is finished according to the rules above given. ‘The or- 
naments for polished stuccos ought to be used with a re- 
gard to propriety, suitable to the nature of the place, and 
should be varied in their composition. In winter tri- 
clinia, neither large pictures nor delicate ornaments in 
the cornice, under the vault, are to be introduced, be- 
cause they are soon injured by the smoke of the fire, and 
of the quantity of lights used therein. In these, above 
the podium, polished pannels of a black colour are intro- 
duced, with yellow or red margins round them. ‘The 
method of finishing plain as well as enriched ceilings hav- 
ing been described, it will not be amiss, in case any one 
should wish to know it, to explain the construction of 
the pavements used in the Grecian winter rooms; which 
is not only economical but useful. The floor of the tri- 
clinium is excavated to the depth of about two feet; and 
after the bottom is well rammed, a pavement of rub- 
bish or potsherds is spread over it, with a declivity 
towards the holes of the drain. A composition of pounded 
coals, lime, sand, and ashes, is mixed up and spread 
thereover, half a foot in thickness, perfectly smooth and 
level. The surface being then rubbed with stone, it has 


209 


the appearance of a black pavement. Thus, at their 
banquets, the liquor that is spilt, and the expectoration 
which falls on it, immediately dry up; and the persons who 
wait on the guests, though barefooted, do not suffer from 
‘cold on this sort of pavement. 


210 


CHAPTER V. 


OF THE USE OF PAINTING IN BUILDINGS. 


In the other rooms, namely, those for vernal, autumnal 
and summer use: in atria also, and peristylia, certain 
kinds of pictures were used by the ancients. Paint- 
ing represents subjects which exist or may exist, such 
as men, houses, ships, and other things, the forms and 
precise figures of which are transferred to their re- 
presentations. Hence those of the ancients who first 
used polished coats of plastering, originally imitated the 
variety and arrangement of inlaid marbles. Afterwards 
the variety was extended to the cornices, and the yel- 
low and red frames of pannels, from which they pro- 
ceeded to the representations of buildings, columns, and 
the projections of roofs. In spacious apartments, such as 
exedre, on account of their extent, they decorated 
the walls with scenery, after the tragic, comic or sa- 
tyric mode; and galleries from their extended length, they 
decorated with varied landscapes, the representations of 
particular spots. In these they also painted ports, pro- 
montories, the coasts of the sea, rivers, fountains, straits, 
groves, mountains, cattle, shepherds, and sometimes 
figures representing gods, and stories, such as the Trojan 
battles, or the wanderings of Ulysses over different coun- 
tries, and other subjects, founded on real history. But 
those which were used by the ancients are now taste- 
lessly laid aside: inasmuch as monsters are painted in the 
present day rather than objects whose prototype are to be 


211 


observed in nature. For columns reeds are substituted ; for 
pediments the stalks, leaves, and tendrils of plants; cande- 
labra are made to support the representations of small 
buildings, from whose summits many stalks appear to 
spring with absurd figures thereon. Not less so are those 
stalks with figures rising from them, some with human 
heads, and others with the heads of beasts; because 
similar forms never did, do, nor can exist in nature. 
These new fashions have so much prevailed, that for 
want of competent judges, true art is little esteemed. 
How is it possible for a reed to support a roof, or a 
candelabrum to bear a house with the ornaments on 
its roof, or a small and pliant stalk to carry a sitting 
figure; or, that half figures and flowers at the same 
time should spring out of roots and stalks? And yet the 
public, so far from discouraging these falsehoods, are de- 
lighted with them, not for a moment considering whether 
such things could exist. Hence the minds of the multi- 
tude, misled by improper judges, do not discern that 
which is founded on reason and the rules of propriety. 
No pictures should be tolerated but those established on 
the basis of truth; and although admirably painted, 
they should be immediately discarded, if they trans- 
gress the rules of propriety and perspicuity as respects 
the subject. At Tralles, a town of Lydia, when Apatu- 
rius of Alabanda had painted an elegant scene for the 
little theatre which they call éx#Anoseerngwov, in which, in- 
stead of columns, he introduced statues and centaurs to 
support the epistylium, the circular end of the dome, 
and angles of the pediments, and ornamented the 
cornice with lions’ heads, all which are appropriate as 
ornaments of the roofing and eaves of edifices; he painted 


212 


above them, in the episcenium, a repetition of the domes, 
porticos, half pediments, and other parts of roofs and their 
ornaments. Upon the exhibition of this scene, which on 
accountof its richness gave great satisfaction, every one was 
ready to applaud, when Licinius, the mathematician, ad- 
vanced, and thus addressed them: ‘The Alabandines are 
sufficiently informed in civil matters, but are without judg- 
ment on subjects of less moment ; for the statues in their 
Gymnasium are all in the attitude of pleading causes, 
whilst those in the forum are holding the discus, or in 
the attitude of running, or playing with balls, so that the 
impropriety of the attitudes of the figures in such places 
disgraces the city. Let us therefore, be careful by our 
treatment of the scene of Apaturius, not to deserve the 
appellation of Alabandines or Abderites ; for who among 
you would place columns or pediments on the tiles which 
cover the roofs of your houses? These things stand on 
the floors, not on the tiles. If, then, approbation is con- 
ferred on representations in painting which cannot exist 
in fact, we of this city shall be like those who for a simi- 
lar error are accounted illiterate.”’” Apaturius dared not 
reply, but took down and altered the scene, so as to make 
it consistent with truth, and then it was approved. O that 
the gods would restore Licinius to life, that he might 
correct the folly, and fashionable inconsistency in our 
stucco work. It is not foreign to my purpose to show 
how inconsistency overcomes truth. The ancients labour- 
ed to accomplish and render pleasing by dint of art, 
that which in the present day is obtained by means of 
strong and gaudy colouring, and for the effect which was 
formerly obtained only by the skill of the artist, a pro- 
digal expense is now substituted. Who in former times 


213 


used minium otherwise than as a medicine? In the pre- 
sent age, however, walls are every where covered with it. 
To this may be added the use of chrysocolla, purple, 
and azure decorations, which, without the aid of real art, 
produce a splendid effect. These are so costly, that un- 
less otherwise stated in agreements, they are to be, by 
law, charged to the account of the employer. To my ut- 
most I have described the means for avoiding defective 
plastering, and as lime has previously been sufficiently 
treated of, it now remains to treat of marble. 


214 


CHAPTER VI. 


OF THE PREPARATION OF MARBLE FOR PLASTERING. 


Mars zz is not alike in all countries. In some places it 
contains pellucid particles, similar to those of salt, which, 
when bruised and ground, impart great solidity to plas- 
tering and cornices. When these are not to be obtained, 
the chips (assule), as they are denominated, which the 
workers in marble throw off in working, may be substi- 
tuted after being pounded and sifted. They are to be 
separated into three sorts, of which that which contains 
the larger particles, is, as we have above directed, to be 
laid on with the sand and lime: then follows the second 
coat, and afterwards, the third which is finer in texture. 
After this preparation, and a careful polishing of the 
work, the colours which it is to receive are to be consi- 
dered, so that they may be brilliant. Their variety and 
the method of preparing them will be found in the fol- 
lowing pages. 


215 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF NATURAL COLOURS. 


Some are found in certain places in a native state, and 
thence dug up, whilst others are composed of different 
substances, ground and mixed together, so as to answer 
the same purpose. First we shall explain the nature 
of that which is found native, called by the Greeks 
éxee. This, as in Italy, is discovered in many places, but 
the best is the Attic sort, which cannot now be procured, 
for in working the silver mines at Athens, if by chance 
they fell upon a vein of ochre, they followed it up just 
as they would one of silver. Hence the ancients used 
abundance of ochre in their finishings. Red ochre is 
also found in many places, but the best only in a few, 
as at Sinope, in Pontus; in Egypt; in the Balearic 
Islands, near the coast of Spain; also in Lemnos, the 
revenue of which island the senate and people of Rome 
granted to the Athenians. The Pareetonion takes its name 
from the place where it is dug up. The Melinon on a si- 
milar account is so called, from its abundance in Melos, one 
of the Cyclades. Green chalk is also found in many places; 
but the best comes from Smyrna, and iscalled by the Greeks 
S20d0rs0v, because Theodotus was the owner of the land in 
which it was first discovered. Orpiment, which is called 
aeoévixov in Greek, is obtained from Pontus. Red lead 
is also obtained from many places, but the best comes 
from Pontus, near the river Hypanis. In other spots as 


216 


in the country between the borders of Magnesia and Ephe- 
sus, it is procured from the earth in such a state as to 
want neither grinding nor sifting, but quite as fine as 
that which is ground and pounded by hand. 


— 


217 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF VERMILION AND QUICKSILVER. 


I sHatt now speak of vermilion. This is said to have 
been first found in the Cilbian fields of the Ephesians, 
and the manner of procuring and preparing it is very curi- 
ous. A clod of earth is selected, which, before it is manu- 
factured into vermilion, is called Anthrax, wherein are 
veins resembling iron, but of a red colour, and having a 
red dust round them. When dug up, it is beaten with iron 
bars till a great number of drops of quicksilver exude from 
it; these are immediately collected by the excavators. The 
clods, when collected in the laboratory, on account of their 
great dampness, are thrown into a furnace to dry; and 
the fumes that rise from them through the action of the 
fire fall condensed on the floor of the furnace, and 
are found to be quicksilver. But as, from the small- 
ness of the drops which thus remain, they cannot be ga- 
thered up, they are swept into a vessel of water, in which 
they run together and re-unite. These, when they fill a 
vessel of the capacity of four sextarii, weigh one’ hundred 
pounds. If quicksilver be placed in a vessel, and a 
stone of a hundred pounds weight be placed on it, it will 
swim at the top, and will, notwithstanding its weight, be 
incapable of pressing the liquid so as to break or separate 
it. If this be taken out, and only a single scruple of gold 
be put in, that will not swim, but immediately descend to 
the bottom. This is a proof that the gravity of a body 
does not depend on its weight, but on its nature. Quick- 
silver is used for many purposes; without it, neither 
FF 


218 


silver nor brass can be properly gilt. When gold is 
embroidered on a garment which is worn out and no 
longer fit for use, the cloth is burnt over the fire in 
earthen pots; the ashes are thrown into water, and 
quicksilver added to them: this collects all the particles 
of gold, and unites withthem. The water is then poured 
off, and the residuum placed in a cloth: which, when 
squeezed with the hands, suffers the liquid quicksilver to 


pass through the pores of the cloth, but retains the gold 
in a mass within it. ; 


SS es 
awn” & « 


219 


CHAPTER IX. 


OF THE PREPARATION OF VERMILION. 


I now return to the preparation of vermilion. When the 
clods are dry, they are pounded and reduced to powder 
with iron beaters, and then, by means of repeated wash- 
ings and dryings, the colour is produced. When this is 
effected, the vermilion, deprived of the quicksilver, loses 
its natural tenacity, and becomes soft and disconnected ; 
and used in the last coat of the plastering of rooms, keeps 
its colour without fading. But in open places, such as 
peristylia or exedree, and similar situations whereto the 
rays of the sun and moon penetrate, the brilliancy of the 
colour is destroyed by contact with them, and it becomes 
black. Thus, as it has happened to many others, Fabe- 
rius, the scribe, wishing to have his house on the Aven- 
tine elegantly finished, coloured the walls of the peristy- 
lia with vermilion. In the course of thirty days they 
turned to a disagreeable uneven colour; on which. ac- 
count he was obliged to agree with the contractors to lay 
on other colours. Those who are particular in this re- 
spect, and are desirous that the vermilion should retain 
its colour, should, when the wall is coloured and dry, rub 
it with a hard brush charged with Punic wax melted and 
tempered with oil: then, with live coals in an iron pan, 
the wall should be thoroughly heated, so as to melt the 
wax and make it lie even, and then rubbed with a candle 
and clean cloth, as they do marble statues. This prac- 
tice is called xaveis by the Greeks. The coat of Punic 
wax prevents the effect of the moon’s as well as that of 


220 


the sun’s rays thereon which injure and destroy the 
colours in work of this nature. The laboratories which 
were :ormerly carried on at the mines in Ephesus are now 
transferred to Rome, on account of mines of the same sort 
having been discovered in some parts of Spain, whence 
the clods are brought and worked by manufacturers at 
Rome. These laboratories are situated between the tem- 
ples of Flora and Quirinus. Vermilion is occasionally 
adulterated with lime. The following is a method by 
which its goodness may be proved. Let the vermilion 
be placed on an iron plate over the fire, and remain 
till the plate is red hot: when the heat has changed the 
colour, and it appears black, let the plate be removed 
from the fire. If, when cooled, it returns to its original 
colour, it may be considered pure. But if it remain of 
a black colour, it is quite clear that it has’ been adul- 
terated. I have written all that I remember respecting 
vermilion. Chrysocolla comes from Macedonia, and is 
found in the vicinity of copper mines. Minium and 
indigo, by their names, indicate the places from whence 
they are obtained. 


221 


CHAPTER X, 


OF ARTIFICIAL COLOURS. OF BLACK. 


I wAVE now to speak of those bodies which, from par- 
ticular treatment, change their qualities, and acquire the 
properties of colours ; and first, of black, which is much 
employed in different works, in order that it may be 
known how it is prepared for use. An apartment is built 
similar to a laconicum, plastered with marble stucco, and 
polished. In front of it is built a furnace, which com- 
municates with the laconicum; the mouth of this is to 
be very carefully closed, for the purpose of preventing 
the escape of the flame. Resin is then placed in the fur- 
nace, whose smoke, when the material is set on fire, passes 
by means of communications into the laconicum, and 
therein adheres to the walls and the arched ceiling. It 
is then collected, and some part of it is tempered with 
gum, to make ink for transcribers; the remainder is used 
by stuccoers in colouring walls, being previously mixed 
with size. But if this cannot be procured, in order to 
prevent delay, the following expedient may be adopted. 
Pine branches or chips must be burnt, and, when 
thoroughly charred, pounded in a mortar with size. Thus - 
the plasterer will procure an agreeable black colour. A 
black colour, not less pleasing, is made by drying and 
burning lees of wine in a furnace, and grinding the result 
with size. Indeed, this makes a very agreeable black. 
The better the wine whose lees are used, the better will 
be the black colour; which will, in such case, approach 
the colour of indigo. 


222 


CHAPTER XI. 


OF BLUE, AND OF BURNT YELLOW. 


Buve was first manufactured at Alexandria, and after- 
wards by Vestorius at Puzzuoli. ‘The method of making 
it, and the nature of the ingredients, merit our attention. 
Sand is ground with flowers of sulphur, till the mixture 
is as fine as flour, to which coarse filings of Cyprian 
copper are added, so as to make a paste when moistened 
with water; this is rolled into balls with the hand, and 
dried. The balls are then put into an earthen vessel, and 
that is placed in a furnace. Thus the copper and sand 
heating together by the intensity of the fire, impart to 
each other their different qualities, and thereby acquire 
their blue colour. Burnt yellow, which is much used 
in stuccos, is thus made. A lump of good yellow earth 
is heated red hot; it is then quenched in vinegar, by 
which it acquires a purple colour. 


. 


223 


CHAPTER XII. 


OF WHITE LEAD, VERDIGREASE, AND RED LEAD. 


Ir will be proper to explain in what manner white lead 
is made, and also verdigrease, which we call sruca. 
The Rhodians place, in the bottoms of large vessels, a 
layer of twigs, over which they pour vinegar, and on the 
twigs they lay masses of lead. ‘The vessels are covered, 
to prevent evaporation; and when, after a certain time, 
they are opened, the masses are found changed into white 
lead. In the same way they make verdigrease, which is 
called zruca, by means of plates of copper. ‘The white 
lead is roasted in a furnace, and, by the action of the 
fire, becomes red lead. This invention was the result of 
observation in the case of an accidental fire ; and, by the 
process, a much better material is obtained than that 
which is procured from mines. 


Q24, 


CHAPTER XIII. 


OF PURPLE. 


I sHaLi now speak of purple, which, above all other co- 
lours, has a delightful effect, not less from its rarity than 
from its excellence. It is procured from the marine 
shell which yields the scarlet dye, and possesses qualities 
not less extraordinary than those of any other body what- 
ever. It does not in all places where it is found possess 
the same quality of colour; but varies in that respect 
according to the sun’s course. ‘Thus, that which is ob- 
tained in Pontus and in Galatia, from the nearness of 
those countries to the north, is brown; in those between 
the south and the west, it is pale; that which is found in 
the equinoctial regions, east and west, is of a violet hue ; 
lastly, that which comes from southern countries possesses 
a red quality: the red sort is also found in the island of 
Rhodes, and other places near the equator. After the 
shells are gathered they are broken into small pieces with 
iron bars; from the blows of which, the purple dye oozes 
out like tears, and is drained into mortars and ground. It is 
called ostrum, because extracted from marine shells. 
Inasmuch as this colour, from its saltness, soon dries, it 
is prepared for use with honey. 





225 


CHAPTER XIV. 


OF FACTITIOUS COLOURS. 


Purrte colours are also made by tinging chalk with 
madder-root and hysginum. Divers colours are also 
made from flowers. Thus, when dyers are desirous of 
imitating the Attic ochre, they put dry violets into a 
vessel, and boil them. When so prepared, they pour 
the contents of the vessel on to a cloth, and, squeezing 
it with their hands, receive in a mortar the water thus 
coloured by the violet, and then, mixing Eretrian earth 
with it, and grinding it, the colour of Attic ochre is 
produced. In the same way an excellent purple is ob- 
tained by preparing vaccinium, and mixing it with 
milk. So also, those who cannot afford the use of chry- 
socolla, mix blue with the herb weld, and thus obtain a 
brilliant green. These are called factitious colours. 
On account of the dearness of indigo, Selinusian chalk, 
or that used for making rings, is mixed with glass, which 
the Greeks call dads; and thus they imitate indigo. 
In this book I have explained, as they have occurred 
to me, the methods of making colours for painting, so 
that they may be durable and appropriate. Thus, in 
seven books, are methodically laid down all the rules 
that relate to the perfection: and convenience of build- 
ings. In the following book I shall treat of water, how 
it is to be found and conveyed to any place; as also how 
to ascertain its salubrity, and fitness for the purposes to 
which it is to be applied. 





ee 


rane trie, 


THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE EIGHTH. 








INTRODUCTION. 


Txates, the Milesian, one of the seven wise men, taught 


‘that water was the original cause of all things. Heraclitus 


maintained the same of fire: the priests of the magi, of 
water and fire. Euripides, a disciple of Anaxagoras, called 
by the Athenians the dramatic philosopher, attributed it 
to air and earth; and contended that the latter, impreg- 
nated by the seed contained in the rain falling from the 


heavens, had generated mankind and all the animals on 


228 


the earth; and that all these, when destroyed by time, re- 
turned to their origin. Thus, such as spring from the air, 
also return into air, and not being capable of decay, are 
only changed by their dissolution, returning to that ele- 
ment whereof they first consisted. But Pythagoras, Empe- 
docles, Epicharmus, and other physiologists, and philoso- 
phers, maintained that there were four elements, air, fire, 
water, and earth ; and that their mixture, according to the 
difference of the species, forms a natural mould of different 
qualities. We must recollect, that not only from these 
elements, are all things generated, but that they can 
neither be nourished, nor grow without their assistance. 
Thus bodies cannot live without abundance of air; that 
is, without its being furnished for inspiration and respira- 
tion in considerable quantity. So, also, if a body do 
not possess a due proportion of heat, it can neither be en- 
dued with animal spirits nor a strong constitution, nor 
will the hardness of its food be duly attenuated: and if 
the members of the body are not nourished by the fruits 
of the earth, they will waste, because deprived of the 
mixture of that element with them. Lastly, animals de- 
prived of moisture, from want of water dry up, and are 
bloodless and parched. Divine Providence has made 
those things neither scarce nor dear which are neces- 
sary for mankind, as are pearls, gold, silver, and the 
like, which are neither necessary for the body nor nature ; 
but has diffused abundantly, throughout the world, those 
things, without which the life of mortals would be un- 
certain. Thus, if a body be deficient in spirit, the 
deficiency is supplied by the air. The power of the 
sum, and the discovery of fire, are always ready to 
assist us, and render life more certain. The fruits of 


i 


ey 


229 


the earth also, furnishing nourishment even to excess, 
feed and support animals continually. Water is of in- 
finite utility to us, not only as affording drink, but for 
a great number of purposes in life; and it is furnished 
to us gratuitously. Hence the priests of the Egyptian 
worship teach, that all things are composed of water ; and 
when they cover the vase of water, which is borne to the 
temple with the most solemn reverence, kneeling on the 
earth, with their hands raised to heaven, they return 
thanks to divine goodness for its creation. 


230 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE METHOD OF FINDING WATER. 


As it is the opinion of physiologists, philosophers and 
priests that all things proceed from water, I thought 
it necessary, as in the preceding seven books rules 
are laid down for buildings, to describe in this the 
method of finding water, its different properties, accord- 
ing to the varied nature of places, how it ought to be 
conducted, and in what manner it should be judged of ; 
inasmuch as it is of infinite importance, for the purposes of 
life, for pleasure, and for our daily use. This will be easily 
accomplished if the springs are open and flowing above 
ground. If that be not the case, their sources under 
ground are to be traced and examined. In order to 
discover these, before sunrise one must lie down pros- 
trate in the spot where he seeks to find it,- and with 
his chin placed on the ground and fixed, look around 
the place; for the chin being fixed, the eye cannot 
range upwards farther than it ought, and is confined to 
the level of the place. Then, where the vapours are seen 
curling together and rising into the air, there dig, because 
these appearances are not discovered in dry places. We 
should also consider the nature of the place when we 
search for water. In clay, the vein of water is small, 
the supply little, and not of the best flavour; and if in 
low places, it will be muddy and ill tasted. In black 
earth, only tricklings and small drops are found, which, 
collected from the winter rain, subside in compact 
hard places, and are of very excellent flavour. In 


231 


gravel, the veins are small and variable, but they are ex- 
ceeding well flavoured. In the strong, common and red 
sands, the supply is to be depended on with more cer- 
tainty, and is of good taste. In red stone, abundance 
and that of good quality may be obtained, if it do not 
filter away and escape through the pores. At the feet of 
mountains, and about flinty rocks the supply is copious 
and abundant ; it is there cold and more wholesome. In 
champaign countries, the springs are salt, gross, tepid, 
and unpleasant, except those, which percolating from the 
mountains beneath the surface, issue forth in the plains, 
where, especially when shadowed by trees, they are as 
_ delicious as those of the mountains themselves. Besides 
the above signs for ascertaining in what places water 
may be found, are the following: when a place abounds 
with the slender bulrush, the wild willow, the alder, 
the withy, reeds, ivy, and other plants of a similar sort, 
which neither spring up nor flourish without moisture. 
For these plants usually grow about lakes, which, being 
lower than the other parts of a country, receive both the 
rain water and that of the district, through the winter, 
and, from their size, preserve the moisture for a longer 
period. On these, however, we must not rely. But in 
those districts and lands, no lakes being near, where the 
plants in question grow spontaneously, there we may 
search. In places where these signs do not appear, 
the following plan must be adopted. Dig a hole three 
feet square, and at least five feet deep, and in it, about 
sunset, place a brazen or leaden basin, or larger vessel, 
if one be at hand. It must be rubbed over with-oil inside 
and inverted, and the upper part of the. excavation is to 
be covered with reeds or leaves ; on these the earth is to 


232 


be thrown. On the following day let it be opened, and 
if the inside of the vase be covered with damp and drops 
of water, water will be there found. If the vase placed 
in the pit be of unburnt clay, having been covered as 
above directed, when uncovered it will be damp, and per- 
haps destroyed by the moisture. A fleece of wool being 
placed in the same pit, if, on the following day, water can 
be expressed from it, the existence of water in the place 
is indicated, and that in abundance. Also, if a trimmed 
lamp full of oil be lighted, and placed in the covered pit, 
and on the following day it be not exhausted, but still 
retain unconsumed some of the wick and oil, and present 
a humid appearance, it shows that water will be found 
there, inasmuch as heat: invariably draws the moisture 
towards it. Moreover, if in such place a fire be made on 
the ground, and the ground, when heated, throw out 
cloudy vapours, water will be found in it. These expe- 
riments having been made, and the requisite indications 
being manifest, a well is to be sunk on the spot; and if the 
head of the spring be found, many other wells are to be 
dug round about it, and, by means of under-cuttings, 
connected with it so as to concentrate them. The spring- 
heads, however, are chiefly to be sought in mountains 
and northern districts, because, in those situations, they 
are generally sweeter, more wholesome, and more copious, 
on account of their being sheltered from the rays of the 
sun, of the trees and shrubs in those places being in greater 
abundance, and of the sun’s rays coming obliquely on 
them, so that the moisture is not carried off. Valleys in 
the midst of mountains receive a very large proportion of 
rain, and from the closeness of their woods, as well from 
the shade which the trees afford, added to the snow, 


ee ae 


233 


which so long remains on them, allow it to percolate 
through their strata, and thus arrive at the foot of the 
mountain, when, issuing forth, it becomes the source of 
ariver. On the contrary, in a champaign country, much 
water will not probably be found ; or if it should, it will 
not be wholesome, because the great power of the sun, 
unobstructed by shade, attracts and carries off all hu- 
midity from the plains ; and were even the water to ap- 
pear, the air would attract and dissipate the lightest, 
subtlest, and wholesomest parts, and leave the heaviest, 
most unpleasant, and most unwholesome in the spring. 


234 


CHAPTER II. 


OF RAIN WATER. 


Water collected from showers possesses wholesome qua- 
lities, because it consists of the lightest and most subtle 
particles of all springs, which, cleansed by the action of 
the air, and loosened by the tempests, descend upon the 
earth: and the reason why showers do not fall so often 
upon plains as they do on mountains or their vicinity is, 
because the vapours ascending from the earth at sunrise, 
to whatever part of the heavens they incline, drive the 
air before them, and, being in motion, receive an impetus 
from the air which rushes after them. ‘The air rushing 
-on, and driving in every direction the vapour before it, 
creates gales, and blasts, and eddies of wind. Hence the 
winds, wherever they travel, extract from springs, rivers, 
marshes, and from the sea, when heated by the sun, con- 
densed vapours, which rise and form clouds. These, 
borne up by the winds when they come against the sides 
of mountains, from the shock they sustain, as well as from 
storms, swell, and, becoming heavy, break and disperse 
themselves on the earth. The vapours, clouds, and ex- 
halations which rise from the earth, seem to depend 
on its retention of intense heat, great winds, cold moist- - 
ure, and its large proportion of water. Thus when, 
from the coolness of the night, assisted by the darkness, 
winds arise, and clouds are formed from damp places, the 
sun, at its rising, striking on the earth with great power, 


Paya 


235 


and thereby heating the air, raises the vapours and the dew 
at the same time. A corroboration of this may be seen in 
a hot bath; for it is absurd to suppose that there can be 
a spring above its ceiling ; and yet that, when warmed by 
the heated air from the furnace, attracts the moisture 
from the pavement, whence it is carried up to the vault- 
ing of the ceiling, where it hangs. For hot vapours 
*,., ascend, and at first, from their lightness, do not 
fall down, but as soon as condensed, their gravity pre- 
vents buoyancy, and they drop on the heads of the 
bathers. In the same manner the atmospheric air, when 
warmed by the sun, raises the moisture from all places, 
and gathers it to the clouds: for the earth acted upon 
by heat, drives out its moisture, as heat drives out 
perspiration from the human body. This is manifest 
from the winds, among which, those that blow from the 
coldest quarters, as the north, and the north-east, bring 
dry and pure air, but the south and other winds, which 
blow from the direction of the sun’s course, are very 
damp, and always bring showers with them, because they 
reach us heated by the torrid regions, and imbibing va- 
pours from the countries they pass over, transport them to 
the northern quarters. That this is the case, is evident 
from an inspection of the sources of rivers, as marked in 
geographical charts; as also from the descriptions of them, 
wherein we find that the largest, and greatest number are 
from the north. First, in India, the Ganges and Indus 
spring from Mount Caucasus: in Syria, the Tigris and Eu- 


. phrates: in Asia, and especially in Pontus, the Borys- 


thenes, Hypanis and Tanais: in Colchis, the Phasis: in 
France, the Rhone: in Belgium, the Rhine : southward of 


236 


the Alps, the Timayus and Po: in Italy, the Tiber: in 
Maurusia, which we call Mauritiania, the river Dyris, from 
Mount Atlas, which, rising in a northern region, pro- 
ceeds westward to the lake Heptabolus, where, changing 
its name, it is called the Niger, and thence from the lake 
Heptabolus, flowing under barren mountains, it passes 
in a southern direction, and falls into the Marsh Coloe, 
which encircles Meroe, a kingdom of the southern Ethio- 
pians. From this marsh turning round near the rivers 
Astasoba, Astabora, and many others, it passes through 
mountains to the Cataract, and falling down towards 
the north it passes between Elephantis and Syene and 
the Thebaic Fields in Egypt, where it receives the ap- 
pellation of the Nile. That the source of the Nile is 
in Mauritania, is certain, because on the other side of 
the Mount Atlas are other springs whose course is towards 
the western ocean, in which are found the ichneumon, 
the crocodile, and other animals and fishes of a similar 
nature, the hippopotamus excepted. Since, therefore, 
all the large known rivers in the world seem to flow 
from the north, and towards the land of Africa, be- 
cause those are in the southern regions under the sun’s 
course, where there is little moisture,.and but few springs 
and rivers, it follows that those sources which are in the 
north and north-east, are much better than others, unless 
they run over a sulphureous, aluminous, or bituminous 
soil, for their quality is thereby changed, and whether 
hot or cold, their water is then of bad smell and taste. 
It is not that water, by its nature, is hot, but when 
cold, it is heated by running over a hot soil, and issues 
warm from the earth through the different pores: it does 


e 





Sele 


237 


not, however, long remain in that state, but soon becomes 
cold; whereas, if it were naturally hot, it would not so 
soon grow cool; for it does not lose its taste, smell, and 
colour, which, from the purity of its nature, remain un- 
changed and discoloured. 


238 


CHAPTER III. 


OF THE NATURE OF VARIOUS WATERS. 


There are some hot springs from which water of an excel- 
lent flavour is procured, so pleasant to the taste, that it is 
inferior neither to that of the fountains of the Camzene nor 
of the Martian aqueduct. These are naturally so, on the 
following account. When fire is generated under ground, 
and the soil is heated all round, either from abundance of 
alum, bitumen, or sulphur, the hot vapour ascends to the 
upper parts, and, if there are therein springs of sweet 
water affected by its spreading through the pores, they 
grow hot, without injury to the flavour. There are 
also cold springs whose smell and taste are bad. These 
arise in the lower subterranean places, then pass through 
hot districts, and afterwards continuing their course for a 
considerable distance, are cold when they rise to the 
surface, and of a vitiated taste, smell, and colour. Such is 
the river Albula, in the Tiburtine way: such are the cold 
fountains in the lands of Ardea, both of a similar smell, 
which is like sulphur: such, also, are found in other places. 
But these, though cold, seem, nevertheless, to boil: for, 
falling from a high place on to a heated soil, and acted 
on by the meeting of the water and fire, they rush to- 
gether with great violence and noise; and, apparently 
inflated by the violence of the compressed air, they issue 
boiling from the spring. Among them, however, those 
whose course is not open, but ubstructed by stones or other 
impediments, are, by the force of the air through the nar- 
row pores driven up to the tops of hills. Hence, those 


239 


who think they have found springs at such a height as 


the tops of hills, are mistaken when they dig their wells. 
For as a brazen vase, not filled to the brim, but about 
two-thirds full of water, with a cover thereon, when 
subjected to the great heat of a fire communicates that 
heat to the water, this, from its natural porosity, re- 
ceiving the heat and swelling out, not only fills the 
vase, but, raising the cover by the force of the steam, 
increases and boils over. If the cover be taken away, 
the steam passes off to the open air, and the water sub- 
sides. In the same manner, when springs are forced 
through narrow channels, the pressure of the air drives 


the bubbles of the water to the top; but as soon as they 


come into wide open channels, the pores of the liquid 
having vent, it subsides and returns to its natural level. 
All hot springs are, therefore, medicinal ; because boil- 
ing in the soils through which they pass, they acquire 
many virtues. ‘Thus sulphureous waters restore, by their 
heat, those suffering under nervous complaints, by warm- 
ing and extracting the vitious humours of the body. 
If any member of the body, either from paralysis or other 
malady, become useless, aluminous waters warm it, and 
introducing, through the open pores, the opposing power 
of heat, restore it, and thus it immediately regains its 
former strength. Bituminous waters, taken inwardly, 
act as purgatives, and are excellent for the cure of in- 
ward complaints. There is a species of cold nitrous 
spring like that at Pinna a city of the Vestini, at Cuti- 
lium, and other similar places, which, when taken, purges, 
and, in its passage through the bowels, diminishes schro- 
phulous tumours. In those places where gold, silver, iron, 
brass, lead, and other similar substances, are excavated, 


240 


very copious springs are found. ‘These, however, are 
very pernicious. Indeed they produce effects contrary 
to those of the hot springs which emit sulphur, alum, and 
bitumen: for when taken inwardly, passing through the 
intestines, they affect the nerves and joints, and produce 
hard swellings on them. Hence the nerves are con- 
tracted by the swelling, in the direction of their length, 
and thus induce the cramp or the gout, because the 
vessels become saturated with hard gross cold particles. 
But there is a species of water, which, when not clear, 
has a foam, like a flower, swimming on its surface, 
‘of a colour similar to that of purple glass. It is known 
at Athens more particularly, and, from the places and 
springs in which it is found, it is conducted to the 
city and to the Pirzeus; but, on account of the cause 
above-mentioned, no one drinks it, though it is in use 
for washing and other purposes. They, therefore, to 
avoid its ill effects, drink the well water. The Tree- 
zenians are not. able to escape this evil; for they 
have no other sort of water, except that of Cybdelus. 
Hence, in their city, all, or at least the greatest part, 
of the inhabitants are affected with diseases in the 
feet. At Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, there is a river whose 
name is Cydnus, in which, if gouty persons steep their 
feet, they receive relief from it. There are, moreover, 
many other sorts of water, which have particular proper- 
ties, as the Himera, in Sicily, which, when it departs from 
its source, is divided into two branches. That branch 
which flows towards AZtna, passing through a country 
of sweet humidity, is exceedingly soft; the other, 
its course being through land where salt is dug, has a 
salt taste. At Parsetonium, also, and on the road to the 





ee a cee 


Oe ee 


ne 





241 


temple of Ammon, and at Casium in Agypt, there are 
marshy lakes containing so much salt, that it congeals 
on them. In many other places the springs, rivers and 
lakes, which run near salt-pits, are therefrom rendered 
salt. Others, running over veins of fat earth, ‘issue 
forth impregnated with oil: as at Soloe, a city of Cilicia, 
a river called Liparis, in which those that swim or wash, 
are, as it were, anointed by the water. In Ethiopia, 
also, there is a lake which anoints those that swim there- 
in; and in India there is another, which, when the sky 
is clear, emits a great quantity of oil. At Carthage there 
is a spring, on the surface of which swims an oil of the 
smell of cedar dust, with which they anoint cattle. In 
the island of Zacynthus, and about Dyrrachium and 
Apollonia, are springs which throw up a great quantity 
of pitch with the water. The vast lake at Babylon, 
called the Asphaltic pool, contains floating bitumen, with 
which, and with bricks of baked earth, Semiramis built 
the wall round Babylon. At Joppa, also, in Syria, 
and in Numidian Arabia, are lakes of immense size, 
yielding large masses of bitumen, which are taken away 
by the inhabitants of the neighbourhood. This is not, 
however, surprising; for in that spot there. are many 
quarries of hard bitumen: hence, when the water bursts 
out from this bituminous earth, it carries it therewith ; 
and having come forth, the bitumen is separated from it 
and deposited. In Cappadocia, on the road between Ma- — 
zaca and Tuana, there is a considerable lake, in which, 
if a piece of reed or any other substance be cast, and 
taken out on the following day, it will be found to have 
been turned into stone ; but the part out of water will not 
have changed its quality. In the same manner, at Hiera- 
II 


242 


polis, in Phrygia, a large head of hot water boils up, 
and is conducted by ditches round the gardens and vine- 
yards. At the end of ayear the ditches become incrust- 
ed with stone; and hence, making yearly cuts to the right 
and left, they carry off the incrustations, and use them 
for building field walls. This circumstance, as it appears 
to me, would naturally happen, if, in these spots, and in 
the land about, there be a juice or moisture whose nature 
is similar to that of rennet. For then, when this coagu- 
lating power issues forth from the earth, through the 
springs, congelation takes place by the heat of the sun and 
air, as is seen in salt-pits. Some springs are exceedingly 
bitter, from the bitterness of the juices of the earth; as the 
river Hypanis in Pontus, which, for the first forty miles 
from its source, is of very sweet flavour; but at a 
spot one hundred and sixty miles from its mouth, a 
very small spring falls into it, after which the whole 
body of the river becomes bitter; and this because the 
water flows through that sort of earth and veins from 
whence red lead is procured. These different flavours 
are dependent on the quality of the earth, as in the 
case of fruits. For if the roots of trees, of vines, or of 
other plants, did not produce fruit according to the qua- 
lity of the earth and the nature of the moisture, the 
same sort of fruit would, in all places and countries, 
possess the same flavour. Whereas we see, that, in the 
island of Lesbos the Protyran wine is made, in Meonia 
the zaranexavuevirn (Catakecaumenitan), in Lydia the Me- 
litan, in Sicily the Mamertine, in Campania the Falernian, 
at Terracina and Fundi the Czecuban ; and in many other 
places a vast variety of sorts, of different qualities ; which 
could not be the case, but that the moisture of the earth, 


243 


penetrating the roots with the particular flavour it pos- 
sesses, nourishes the tree, and, rising to the top of it, 
imparts to the fruit the flavour of the place and species. 
For if the soil and its moisture did not vary, not only 
would the reeds and rushes of Syria and Arabia be odo- 
riferous, and the shrubs yield pepper, frankincense, and 
myrrh; nor would the laser grow only in Cyrene, but in 
all countries and in all places would the same sort of 
plants grow. For the varieties that are found in dif- 
ferent situations and countries arise from the different 
climates, and the power of the sun, sometimes at a less 
and at other times at a greater distance; the effects of 
which are perceived, not only on the moisture of the 
earth, but on cattle and flocks. And these circum- 
stances could not occur, if in every country the qua- 
lity of the land did not depend on the sun’s power. 
In Beeotia on the rivers Cephisus and Melas, in Lu- 
cania on the Crathis, in Troy on the Xanthus, and on 
the springs and rivers of the Clazomenians, Erythraans, 
and Laodiceans, the cattle, about the time of bearing, 
at the proper season of the year, are daily driven to 
drink; and though themselves of a white colour, in 
some places they bring forth young of a brown colour, in 
others of dark brown, and in others of a black colour. 
Thus the property of a beverage, when it enters the body, 
communicates thereto its quality, of whatever sort that 
may be. Hence in the plains of Troy, on the banks 
of its river, from the flocks and cattle being yellow, the 
Trojans are said to have called the river Xanthus. Some 
sorts of water are mortal in their effects: these receive 
their quality from the poisonous moisture of the lands 
through which they flow. Such is said to be the Nep- 


244: 


tunian spring at Terracina, of which those who thought- 
lessly drank, lost their lives; hence the antients are 
said to have stopped it up: and in the country of the 
Cychri, in Thrace, there is a lake, of which not only 
those who drink, but those who bathe therein die. In 
Thessaly, also, flows a spring which no cattle will 
drink, nor even approach: near it a shrub grows, which 
bears a purple flower. So, in Macedonia, where Euri- 
pides is interred, from the right and left of his tomb two 
streams unite: on one of them travellers usually halt to 
refresh themselves, on account of the excellence of the 
water: no one, however, approaches the stream on the 
other side of the monument, because its effects are said 
to be mortal. In Arcadia, also, the Nonacrian region 
contains extremely cold water, which drops from the 
mountains and rocks. It is called water of the Styx 
(2rvyos Sdwe) ; which neither silver, brass, nor iron ves- 
sels will hold, because it bursts and destroys them. No- 
thing preserves or contains it but the hoof of a mule: in- 
deed it is said to have been conveyed, by Iolaus the son of 
Antipater, to the province where Alexander was, and to 
have been the cause of his death. In the Cottian Alps 
is a water which those who taste instantly die. In the 
Faliscan territory, on the Via Campana, and in the 
Cornetan division is a grove wherein a spring rises, 
containing bones of snakes, lizards, and other reptiles. 
There are other springs whose water is acid, as are 
those of the Lyncestis, and in Italy, of the Velinus and 
of the Campana near Theanum, and in many other 
places, which, when drank, have the effect of dissolving 
the stone which forms in the bladder. This seems 
to arise from an acrid:and acid moisture being un- 


24.5 


der the earth, from which the waters acquire their 
acridity ; and when introduced into the system, dissolve 
that with which they come in contact whether generated 
by deposition or concretion. ‘That acids will have this 
effect, is clear, from the experiment on an egg, whose 
shell, when kept therein for some time, will be softened 
and dissolve. Lead, also, which is very flexible and 
heavy, if placed in a vessel and covered with acid, and 
there left open, will be dissolved, and become white 
lead. In the same way brass which is more solid by 
nature, if treated in the same way, will dissolve, and 
become verdigrease ; and even pearls and flint-stones, 
which neither iron nor fire can destroy, when sub- 
mitted to its action, are dissolved and dissipated by 
an acid. With these facts before our eyes, we may fair- 
ly argue, that calculous disorders may be cured by acids, 
on account of their acridity. Some springs appear to 
be mixed with wine; as that in Paphlagonia, which, 
when taken, inebriate as wine. At A®qui, in Italy, 
and in the territory. of the Medulli on the Alps, there 
is a species of water, the use of which produces swell- 
ings of the neck. In Arcadia, at the well-known city 
of Clitorium, is a cave flowing with water, of which 
those who drink become abstemious. At the spring is 
an epigram inscribed on stone, in Greek verses, to the 
following effect: that it is not fit for bathing, and also 
that it is injurious to the vine, because, near the spot, 
Melampus cured the daughters of Proetus of their mad- 
ness, and restored them to reason. The epigram is as 
follows: 


Rustic, by Clitor’s stream who takest thy way, 
Should thirst oppress thee in the noon of day 


246 ° 


Drink at this fount, and in the holy keep 

Of guardian Naiads place thy goats and sheep. 
But dip not thou thy hand, if wine inflame, 
Lest e’en the vapour chill thy fever’d frame ; 
Fly thou my sober spring. Melampus here 
Cleansed the mad Preetides, what time the seer 
Arcadia’s rugged hills from Argos sought, 
With purifying power my stream was fraught. 


There is also in the island of Chios, a fountain, of which 
those who imprudently drink become foolish ; and there- 
over is inscribed an epigram to the following purport; 
that though the water of the fountain might be pleasant 
to the taste, yet he who drank of it would lose his senses. 
The lines are thus : 


Sweet drops of cooling draught the spring supplies, 
But whoso drinks, his reason petrifies. 


At Susa, the capital of Persia, there is a fountain, at which 
those_who drink lose their teeth. On this also is writ- 
ten an epigram, stating that the water was excellent 
for washing, but that if drank it caused the teeth to 
fall out of their sockets. ‘The verses are as follow: 


A dreaded spring you see, 
Yet if their hands, good stranger, 
Folks choose to wash, they’re free 
To do so without danger ; 
But if from your long lip, 
Or only from its tip 
Into your hollow venter, 
This liquor pure should enter, 
Your tools for munching meat 
Straight on the ground will tumble, 
And leave their empty seat 
For toothless jaws to mumble. 


247 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF THE QUALITIES OF WATERS IN CERTAIN PLACES. 


Tue quality of the water, in some places, is such, that it 
gives the people of the country an excellent voice for sing- 
ing, as at Tarsus, Magnesia, and other countries.. In 
Africa there is a city called Zama, which king Juba sur- 
rounded with double walls, and built a palace there ; about 
twenty miles from which, is the town of Ismuc, whose 
territory is of vast extent. Though Africa is the nursing 
mother of wild animals, and especially of serpents, in that 
territory none breed, and if any are brought there they 
immediately die ; and if earth from this place be removed 
to another, it has the same effect. This sort of earth is 
also found in the Balearic Isles, where, as I have heard, it 
has even a more extraordinary quality. C. Julius, the 
son of Masinissa, to whom the town and territory be- 
longed, fought under Cesar the elder. Lodging in my 
house, our daily intercourse led us to discuss subjects 
of philology. On an occasion, talking on the power 
of water and its virtues, he assured me that in the above 
territory there were springs of the same sort, and that 
persons born there had excellent voices for singing ; and 
that on this account persons went to the transmarine 
market to buy male and female slaves, whom they cou- 
pled for the purpose of procuring progeny, not only of 
excellent voice, but of great beauty. Thus has nature 
exhibited variety in every thing, except the human body, 
which in every instance consists of earth ; but therein are 


248 


many sorts of fluids, as blood, milk, perspiration, urine, 
and tears. Wherefore, if in so small a portion of earth 
such variety exists, it is not surprising, that in the whole 
world an infinite variety of liquids are found, through the 
veins of which a spring of water passing, becomes impreg- 
nated with their quality before arriving at its head. 
Hence so many fountains of different sorts, arising, as 
well from the diversity of their situations, as from the 
quality of the countries, and the properties of the soils. 
Of some of these things I have been an eye-witness ; of 
others I have read in Greek books, whose authors are 
Theophrastus, Timzeus, Posidonius, Hegesias, Herodotus, 
Aristides, and Metrodorus, who, with the greatest care 
and accuracy have described how the properties of 
places and the virtues of different waters, depend on the 
various climates of the earth. From these I have borrowed 
and copied into this book all that I thought necessary re- 
specting the varieties of water, whereby, from the di- 
rections given, persons can more readily choose springs 
from which they may conduct water to cities and states, 
inasmuch as nothing is more necessary than water. For 
such is the nature of all animals, that if they do not receive 
a supply of grain, they can subsist on fruits, flesh, or fish, 
or something of those sorts ; but without water, neither 
the body of an animal, nor even food itself can be raised, 
preserved, nor provided. The utmost diligence and la- 
bour, therefore, should be used in choosing springs, on 
which the health of mankind depends. 


249 


CHAPTER V. 


OF THE MEANS OF JUDGING OF WATER. 


Tue trial and proof of water are made as follows. If it be 
of an open and running stream, before we lay it on, the 
shape of the limbs of the inhabitants of the neighbour- 
hood should be looked to and considered. If they are 
strongly formed, of fresh colour, with sound legs, and with- 
out blear eyes, the supply is of good quality. Also, if dig- 
ging to a fresh spring, a drop of it be thrown into a Co- 
rinthian vessel made of good brass, and leave no stain 
thereon, it will be found excellent. Equally good that 
water will be, which, after boiling in a cauldron, leaves no 
sediment of sand or clay on the bottom. So if vegetables 
are quickly cooked over the fire in a vessel full of this 
water, it shews that the water is good and wholesome. 
Moreover, if the water itself, when in the spring is limpid 
and transparent, and the places over which it runs do not 
generate moss, nor reeds, nor other filth be near it, every 
thing about it having a clean appearance, it will be ma- 
nifest by these signs, that such water is light and exceed- 
ingly wholesome. 


_ CHAPTER VI. 


OF LEVELLING, AND THE INSTRUMENTS USED FOR 
: THAT PURPOSE. 


I sHatt now describe how water is to be conveyed to 
houses and cities, for which purpose levelling is necessary. 
This is performed either with the dioptra, the level (libra 
aquaria), or the chorobates. The latter instrument is 
however the best, inasmuch as the dioptra and level are 
often found to be incorrect. The chorobates is a rod 
about twenty feet in length, having two legs at its extre- 
mities of equal length and dimensions, and fastened to 
the ends of the rod at right angles with it ; between the 
rod and the legs are cross pieces fastened with tenons, 
whereon vertical lines are correctly marked, through 
which correspondent plumb lines hang down from the 
rod. When the rod is set, these will coincide with the 
lines marked, and shew that the instrument stands level. 
But if the wind obstructs the operation, and the lines are 
put in motion, so that one cannot judge by them, let a 
channel be cut on the top of the rod five feet long, one 
inch wide, and half an inch high, and let water be poured 
into it; if the water touch each extremity of the channel 
equally, it is known to be level. When the chorobates 
is thus adjusted level, the declivity may be ascertained. 
Perhaps some one who may have read the works of Ar- 
chimedes will say that a true level cannot be obtained by 
means of water, because that author says, that water is 
not level, but takes the form of a spheroid, whose centre 
is the same as that of the earth. Whether the water have 


251 


a plane or spheroidal surface, the two ends of the channel 
on the rod right and left, when the rod is level, will never- 
theless sustain an equal height of water. If it be inclined 
towards one side, that end which is highest will not suffer 
the water to reach to the edge of the channel on the rule. 
Hence it follows, that though water poured in may have 
a swelling and curve in the middle, yet its extremities to 
the right and left will be level. The figure of the choro- 
bates will be given at the end of the book. If there be 
much fall, the water will be easily conducted, but if there 
be intervals of uneven ground, use must be made of sub- 
structions. 


252 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF CONDUCTING WATER. 


Water is conducted in three ways, either in streams by 
means of channels built to convey it, in leaden pipes or. 
in earthen tubes, according to the following rules. If in 
channels, the structure must be as solid as possible, and 
the bed of the channel must have a fall of not less than 
half a foot to a length of one hundred. These channels 
are arched over at top, that the sun may strike on the 
water as little as possible. When they are brought home 
to the walls of the city a reservoir (castellum) is built, with 
a triple cistern attached to it to receive the water. In the 
reservoir are three pipes of equal sizes, and so connected 
that when the water overflows at the extremities, it is dis- 
charged into the middle one, in which are placed pipes 
for the supply of the pools and fountains, in the second 
those for the supply of the baths, thus affording a yearly 
revenue to the people ; in the third, those for the supply 
of private houses. ‘This is to be so managed that the water 
for public use may never be deficient, for that cannot be 
diverted if the mains from the heads are rightly con- 
structed. I have made this division in order that the 
rent which is collected from private individuals who are 
supplied with water, may be applied by the collectors 
to the maintenance of the aqueduct. If hills intervene 
between the city walls and the spring head, tunnels 
under ground must be made preserving the fall above as- 
signed ; if the ground cut through be sandstone or stone, 
the channel may be cut therein, but if the soil be earth or 


258 


gravel, side walls must be built, and an arch turned 
over, and through this the water may be conducted. The 
distance between the shafts over the tunnelled part is to 
be one hundred and twenty feet. If the water is to be 
brought in leaden pipes, a reservoir is first made near the 
spring, from whence to the reservoir in the city, pipes 
are laid proportioned to the quantity of water. The 
pipes must be made in lengths of not less than ten feet : 
hence if they be one hundred inches wide (centenarie), 
each length will weigh twelve hundred pounds ; if eighty 
inches (octogenariz), nine hundred and sixty pounds ; if 
fifty inches (quinquagenarie), six hundred pounds; if 
forty inches (quadragenariz), four hundred and eighty 
pounds ; if thirty inches (tricenarie), three hundred and 
sixty pounds ; if twenty inches (vicenarie), two hundred 
and forty pounds ; if fifteen inches (quinumdenum), one 
hundred and eighty pounds; if ten inches (denum), one 
hundred and twenty pounds; if eight inches (octonum), 
ninety-six pounds : if five inches (quinariz), sixty pounds. 
It is to be observed that the pipes take the names of their 
sizes from the quantity of inches in width of the sheets, 
before they are bent round: thus, if the sheet be fifty 
inches wide, before bending into a pipe, it is called a fifty 
inch pipe; and so of the rest. An aqueduct which is 
made of lead, should be thus constructed ; if there be a 
proper fall from the spring head to the city, and hills high 
enough to cause an impediment do not intervene, the low 
intervals must be brought to a level by means of substruc- 
tions preserving the fall directed for channel aqueducts, 
or by means of a circuitous course, provided it be not too 
much about; but if there be long valleys, let it be laid ac- 
cording to the slope of the hill, and when it arrives at 


254: 


the bottom, let it be carried level by means of a low 
substruction as great.a distance as possible; this is. the 
part called the venter, by the Greeks zoAia ; when it 
arrives at the opposite acclivity, the water therein being 
but slightly swelled on account of the length of the venter, 
it may be directed upwards. If the venter were not made 
use of in valleys, nor the level substruction, but instead 
of that the aqueduct were brought to an elbow, the 
water would burst and destroy the joints of the pipes. 
Over the venter long stand pipes should be placed, by 
means of which, the violence of the air may escape. ‘Thus, 
those who have to conduct water through leaden pipes, 
may by these rules, excellently regulate its descent, its cir- 
cuit, the venter, and the compression of the air. It will 
moreover be expedient, when the level of the fall from the 
spring is obtained, to build reservoirs at distances of 
twenty thousand feet from each other, because if damage 
be done to any part, it will not then be necessary to take 
the whole work to pieces, and the defective places will be 
more easily found. These reservoirs, however, are not to 
be made on a descent, nor on the venter, nor on a rise, nor, 
generally speaking, in valleys, but only on plains. But if 
the water must be conveyed more economically, the fol- 
lowing means may be adopted. Thick earthen tubes are to 
be provided, not less than two inches in thickness, and 
tongued at one end, so that they may fit into one an- 
other. The joints are then to be coated with a mixture 
of quick lime and oil, and in the elbows made by the 
level part of the venter, instead of the pipe, must be placed 
a block of red stone, which is to be perforated, so that 
the last length of inclined pipe, as well as the first length 
of the level part may be received into it. Then, on the 


255 


opposite side, where the acclivity begins, the block of red 
stone receives the Jast length of the venter, and the first 
length of the rising pipe. Thus adjusting the direction of 
the tubes, both in the descents and acclivities, the work 
will never be dislodged. For a great rush of air is gene- 
rated in an aqueduct, strong enough to break even stones, 
unless the water is softly and sparingly let down from the ° 
head, and unless in elbows or bending joints it be restrained 
by means of ligatures, or a weight of ballast. In other 
respects it is similar to one with leaden pipes. When 
the water is first let down from the head, ashes are 
put in which will stop those joints not sufficiently coated. 
Earthen pipes have these advantages, first as to the work ; 
next, that if damaged any one can repair it. Water 
conducted through earthen pipes is more wholesome 
than that through lead; indeed that conveyed in lead 
must be injurious, because from it white lead is obtained, 
and this is said to be injurious to the human system. 
Hence, if what is generated from it is pernicious, there 
can be no doubt that itself cannot be a wholesome body. 
This may be verified by observing the workers in lead, 
who are of a pallid colour ; for in casting lead, the fumes 
from it fixing on the different members, and daily burning 
them, destroy the vigour of the blood ; water should there- 
fore on no account be conducted in leaden pipes if we are 
desirous that it should be wholesome. That the flavour of 
that conveyed in earthen pipes is better, is shewn at our 
daily meals, for all those whose tables are furnished with 
silver vessels, nevertheless use those made of earth, from the 
purity of the flavour being preserved in them. If there be 
no springs from which water can be obtained, it is necessary 
to dig wells, on which every care is to be bestowed, and the 


256 


utmost ingenuity and discretion used in the examination of 
the natural indications of the circumstances thereabout, in- 
asmuch as the different sorts of soil which are met with, 
are many and various. That, like every other body, is 
composed of four elements ; first of earth itself; water, 
whence are the springs; heat, whence sulphur, alum, and bi- 
tumen are generated; and air, whence arise great vapours, 
which, piercing through the pores to the opening of wells, 
strike upon the excavators and suffocate them by their 
natural influence, so that those who do not immediately 
escape lose their lives. To avoid this the following method 
may be adopted; a lighted lamp must be lowered ; if it 
continue to burn, a man may safely descend, but if the 
strength of the vapour extinguish it, then to the right 
and left of the well let air holes be dug, so that as it were 
through nostrils, the vapour may pass off. When this is 
done and we come to water, the well must be lined 
with a wall, but in such a manner as not to shut out the 
springs. If the soil be hard, and there be no veins of 
water found at the bottom, we must then have recourse 
to cisterns made of cement, in which water is collected 
from roofs and other high places. The cement is thus 
compounded ; in the first place, the purest and roughest 
sand that can be had is to be procured ; then work must 
be of broken flint whereon no single piece is to weigh 
more than a pound, the lime must be very strong, and in 
making it into mortar, five parts of sand are to be added 
to two of lime, the flint work is combined with the mortar, 
and of it the walls in the excavation are brought up from 
the bottom, and shaped by wooden bars covered with 
iron. The walls being shaped, the earth in the middle 
is to be thrown out as low as the foot of the walls, and 


257 


when levelled, the bottom is to be covered with the same 
materials to the requisite thickness. If these receptacles 
are made in two or three divisions, so that the water may 
be passed from one to another, it will be more whole- 
some for use; for the mud in it will be thus allowed 
to subside, and the water will be clearer, preserve its 
flavor, and be free from smell; otherwise it will be ne- 
cessary to use salt for purifying it. In this book I have 
explained to my utmost ability the virtues and varieties 
of waters, their use and conveyance, and how their good- 
ness may be ascertained ; in the following book I intend 
to describe the principles of gnomonics and the rules of 
dialling. 


LL 





THE 
ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE NINTH. 





INTRODUCTION. 


Tue ancestors of the Greeks held the celebrated wrest- 
lers who were victors in the Olympic, Pythian, Isthmian 
and Nemean games in such esteem, that, decorated 
with the palm and crown, they were not only publicly 
thanked, but were also, in their triumphant return to 
their respective homes, borne to their cities and coun- 
tries in four horse chariots, and were allowed pensions 
for life from the public revenue. When I consider 


260 


these circumstances, I cannot help thinking it strange that 
similar honours, or even greater, are not decreed to those 
authors who are of lasting service to mankind. Such 
certainly ought to be the case; for the wrestler, by 
training, merely hardens his own body for the conflict; a 
writer, however, not only cultivates his own mind, but af- 
fords every one else the same opportunity, by laying down 
_ precepts for acquiring knowledge, and exciting the talents 
ofhis reader. What does it signify to mankind, that Milo 
of Crotona, and others of this class, should have been in- 
vincible, except that whilst living they were ennobled 
by their fellow countrymen? On the other hand the 
doctrines of Pythagoras, Democritus, Plato, Aristotle, 
and other sages, the result of their daily application, and 
undeviating industry, still continue to yield, not only to 
their own country, but to all nations, fresh and luscious 
fruit, and they, who from an early age are satiated there- 
with, acquire the knowledge of true science, civilize 
mankind, and introduce laws and justice, without which 
no state can long exist. Since, therefore, individuals as 
well as the public are so indebted to these writers for 
the benefits they enjoy, I think them not only entitled 
to the honour of palms and crowns, but even to be num- 
bered among the gods. I shall produce in illustration, 
some of their discoveries as examples, out of many, which 
are of utility to mankind, on the exhibition whereof it 
must be granted without hesitation that we are bound to 
render them our homage. ‘The first I shall produce will 
be one of Plato, which will be found of the greatest im- 
portance, as demonstrated by him. 


261 


CHAPTER I. 


OF THE METHOD OF DOUBLING THE AREA OF A 
SQUARE. 


Ir there be an area or field, whose form is a square, and 
it is required to set out another field whose form is also 
to be a square, but double in area, as this cannot be ac- 
complished by any numbers or multiplication, it may be 
found exactly by drawing lines for the purpose, and the 
demonstration is as follows. A square plot of ground ten 
feet long by ten feet wide, contains an hundred feet ; if 
we have to double this, that is, to set out a plot also 
square, which shall contain two hundred feet, we must 
find the length of a side of this square, so that its area 
may be double, that is two hundred feet. By numbers 
this cannot be done ; for if the sides are made fourteen 
feet, these multiplied into each other give one hundred 
and ninety-six feet ; if fifteen feet, they give a product of 
two hundred and twenty-five. Since, therefore, we can- 
not find them by the aid of numbers, in the square of ten 
feet a diagonal is to be drawn from angle to angle, so that 
the square may thereby be divided into two equal tri- 
angles of fifty feet area each. On this diagonal another 
square being described, it will be found, that whereas in 
the first square there were two triangles, each containing 
fifty feet, so in the larger square formed on the diagonal 
there will be four triangles of equal size and number of 
feet to those in the larger square. In this way Plato 
shewed and demonstrated the method of doubling the 
square, as the figure appended explains. 


262 


CHAPTER II. 


OF THE METHOD OF CONSTRUCTING A RIGHT 
ANGLED TRIANGLE. 


Pyruacoras demonstrated the method of forming a right 
angle without the aid of the instruments of artificers : and 
that which they scarcely, even with great trouble, ex- 
actly obtain, may be performed by his rules with great 
facility. Let three rods be procured, one three feet, 
one four feet, and the other five feet long; and let them 
be so joined as to touch each other at their extremities ; 
they will then form a triangle, one of whose angles will be 
a right angle. For if, on the length of each of the rods, 
squares be described, that whose length is three feet will 
have an area of nine feet ; that of four, of sixteen-feet ; and 
that of five, of twenty-five feet : so that the number of feet 
contained in the two areas of the square of three and four 
feet added together, are equal to those contained in the 
square, whose side is five feet. When Pythagoras disco- 
vered this property, convinced that the Muses had as- 
sisted him in the discovery, he evinced his gratitude to 
them by sacrifice. This proposition is serviceable on 
many occasions, particularly in measuring, no less than 
in setting out the staircases of buildings, so that each 
step may have its proper height. For if the height from 
the pavement to the floor above be divided into three 
parts, five of those parts will be the exact length of the 
inclined line which regulates the blocks of which the 
steps are formed. Four parts, each equal to one of the 


263 


three into which the height from the pavement to the 
floor was divided, are set off from the perpendicular, for 
the position of the first or lower step. Thus the arrange- 
ment and ease of the flight of stairs will be obtained, as 
the figure will shew. 


264 


CHAPTER III. 


OF THE METHOD OF DETECTING SILVER WHEN 
MIXED WITH GOLD. 


Tuoucn Archimedes discovered many curious matters 
which evince great intelligence, that which I am about 
to mention is the most extraordinary. Hiero, when he ob- 
tained the regal power in Syracuse, having, on the fortu- 
nate turn of his affairs, decreed a votive crown of gold to 
be placed in a certain temple to the immortal gods, com- 
manded it to be made of great value, and assigned an ap- 
propriate weight of gold to the manufacturer. He, in due 
time, presented the work to the king, beautifully wrought, 
and the weight appeared to correspond with that of the 
gold which had been assigned for it. But a report having 
been circulated, that some of the gold had been abstract- 
ed, and that the deficiency thus caused had been supplied 
with silver, Hiero was indignant at the fraud, and, unac- 
quainted with the method by which the theft might be 
detected, requested Archimedes would undertake to give 
it his attention. Charged with this commission, he by 
chance went to a bath, and being in the vessel, per- 
ceived that, as his body became immersed, the water 
ran out of the vessel. Whence, catching at the me- 
thod to be adopted for the solution of the proposition, 
he immediately followed it up, leapt out of the vessel 
in joy, and, returning home naked, cried out with a 
loud voice that he had found that of which he was in 
search, for he continued exclaiming, in Greek, senna, 
(I have found it out). After this, he is said to have taken 


265 


two masses, each of a weight equal to that of the crown, 
one of them of gold and the other of silver. Having pre- 
pared them, he filled a large vase with water up to the 
brim, wherein he placed the mass of silver, which caused as 
much water to run out as was equal to the bulk thereof. 
The mass being then taken out, he poured in by measure 
as much water as was required to fill the vase once more 
to the brim. By these-means he found what quantity of 
water was equal to a certain weight of silver. He then 
placed the mass of gold in the vessel, and, on taking it 
out, found that the water which ran over was lessened, be- 
cause, as the magnitude of the gold mass was smaller than 
that containing the same weight of silver. After again fill- 
ing the vase by measure, he put the crown itself in, and 
discovered that more water ran over then than with the 
mass of gold that was equal toit in weight; and thus, from 
the superfluous quantity of water carried over the brim by 
the immersion of the crown, more than that displaced by 
the mass, he found, by calculation, the quantity of silver 
mixed with the gold, and made manifest the fraud of the 
manufacturer. Let us now consider the discoveries of 
Archytas the Tarentine, and Eratosthenes of Cyrene, 
who, by the aid of mathematics, invented many things 
useful to mankind ; and though for other inventions they 
are remembered with respect, yet they are chiefly celebrat- 
ed for their solution of the following problem. Each of 
these, by a different method, endeavoured to discover the 
way of satisfying the response of Apollo of Delos, which 
required an altar to be made similar to his, but to contain 
double the number of cube feet, on the accomplishment 
of which, the island was to be freed from the anger of the 
gods. Archytas obtained a solution of the problem by 
_MM 


266 


the semicylinder, and Eratosthenes by means of a propor- 
tional instrument. The pleasures derivable from scien- 
tific investigations, and the delight which inventions 
afford when we consider their effects, are such that I 
cannot help admiring the works of Democritus, on the 
nature of things, and his commentary, entitled Xeseordym- 
roy, wherein he sealed with a ring, on red wax, the ac- 
count of those experiments he had tried. The disco- 
veries, therefore, of these men are always at hand, not 
only to correct the morals of mankind, but also to be of 
perpetual advantage to them. But the glory of the 
wrestler and his body soon decay, so that neither whilst 
in vigour, nor afterwards by his instructions, is he of 
that service to society which the learned are by publi- 
cation of their sentiments. Since honours are not awarded 
for propriety of conduct, nor for the excellent precepts 
delivered by authors, their minds soaring higher, are raised 
to heaven in the estimation of posterity, they derive immor- 
tality from their works, and even leave their portraits to 
succeeding ages. For, those who are fond of literature, 
gannot help figuring to themselves the likeness of the poet 
Ennius, as they do that of any of the gods. So also those 
who are pleased with the verses of Accius,think they have 
himself, not less than the force of his expressions, always 
before them. Many even in after ages will fancy them- 
selves contending with Lucretius on the nature of things, 
as with Cicero on the art of rhetoric. Many of our poste- 
rity will think that they are in discourse with Varro when 
they read his work on the Latin language : nor will there 
be wanting a number of philologers, who, consulting in 
variouscases the Greek philosophers, will imagine thatthey 
are actually talking with them. In short, the opinions of 


267 


learned men who have flourished in all periods, though ab- 
sent in body, have greater weight in our councils and dis- 
cussions than were they even present. Hence, O Cesar, 
relying on these authorities, and using their judgment and 
opinions, I have written these books ; the first seven relat- 
ed to buildings, the eighth to the conduct of water, and 
in this I propose treating on the rules of dialling, as de- 
ducible from the shadow produced by the rays of the sun 
from a gnomon, and I shall explain in what proportions ° 
it is lengthened and shortened. 


268 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF THE UNIVERSE AND THE PLANETS. 


Ir is clearly by a divine and surprising arrangement, 
that the equinoctial gnomons are of different lengths in 
Athens, Alexandria, Rome, Piacenza, and in other parts 
of the earth. Hence the construction of dials varies ac- 
cording to the places in which they are to be erected ; 
for from the size of the equinoctial shadow, are formed 
analemmata, by means of which the shadows of gnomons 
are adjusted to the situation of the place and the lines 
which mark the hours. By an analemma is meant a rule 
deduced from the sun’s course, and founded on observa- 
tion of the increase of the shadow from the winter solstice, 
by means of which, with mechanical operations and the use 
of compasses, we arrive at an accurate knowledge of the 
true shape of the world. By the world is meant the whole 
system of nature together with the firmament and its stars. 
This continually turns round the earth and sea on the 
extreme points of its axis, for in those points the natural 
power is so contrived that they must be considered as 
centres, one above the earth and sea at the extremity of 
the heavens by the north stars, the other opposite and 
below the earth towards the south; moreover in these 
central points as round the centres of wheels, which 
the Greeks call 70A0, the heavens perpetually revolve. 
Thus the earth and sea occupy the central space. Hence 
from the construction, the polar centre is raised above the 
earth in the northern part, whilst that in the southern 
part, which is underneath, is hidden from our view by the 


269 


earth, and through the middle obliquely and inclined to the 
south, is a large band comprising the twelve signs, which, 
by the varied combination of the stars being divided into 
twelve equal parts, contains that number of representations 
of figures. ‘These are luminous, and with the firmament 
and the other stars and constellations, make their circuit 
round the earth and sea; all these, visible as well as in- 
visible, have their fixed seasons, six of the signs turning 
above the earth, the remaining six below it ; which latter 
are hidden by the earth. Six of them, however, are al- 
ways above the earth; for the portion of the last sign, 
which by the revolution is depressed below the earth and 
hidden by it, is on the opposite side equal to that of a 
fresh sign emerging from darkness by the force of the 
moving power; since it is the same power and motion 
which cause the rising and setting at the same moment. 
As these signs are twelve in number, each occupies a 
twelfth part of the heaven, and they move continually 
from east to west : and through them in a contrary course, 
the moon, Mercury, Venus, the sun itself, Mars, Jupiter 
and Saturn, as if ascending, pass through the heavens from 
west to east in different orbits. The moon making her 
circuit in twenty-eight days and about one hour, and thus 
returning to the sign from which she departed, completes 
the lunar month. The sun, in the course of a month, 
passes through the space of one sign which is a twelfth 
part of the heavens; hence in twelve months going through 
the twelve signs, when he has returned to that sign from 
which he set out, the period of a year is completed: 
but that circle which the moon passes through thirteen 
times in twelve months, the sun passes through only once 
in the same time. The planets Mercury and Venus near- 


270 


est the rays of the sun, move round the sun as a centre, 
and appear sometimes retrograde and sometimes progres- 
sive, seeming occasionally, from the nature of their cir- 
cuit, stationary in the signs. This may be observed in 
the planet Venus, which when it follows the sun, and ap- 
pears in the heavens with great lustre after his setting, 
is called the evening star ; at other times preceding him 
in the morning before sunrise, it is called the morning star. 
Wherefore these planets at times appear as if they remained 
many days in one sign, whilst at other times they pass ra- 
pidly from one to another; but though they do not remain 
an equal number of days in each sign, the longer they are 
delayed in one the quicker they pass through the succeed- 
ing one, and thus perform their appointed course : in this 
manner it happens that being delayed in some of the signs, 
when they escape from the retention, they quickly pass 
through the rest of their orbit. Mercury revolves in 
the heavens in such a manner, that passing through the 
several signs in three hundred and sixty days, he re- 
turns to that sign from which, he set out, remaining 
about thirty days in each sign. The planet Venus, 
as soon as she escapes from the influence of the 
sun’s rays, runs through the space of one sign in forty 
days; and what she loses by stopping a long time in 
one sign, she makes up by her quick passage through 
others. She completes her circuit through the heavens in 
four hundred and eighty-five days; by which time she 
has returned to the sign from whence she set out. Mars, 
on about the six hundred and eighty-third day, completes 
the circuit of the signs, and returns to his place; and if, 
in any sign, he move with a greater velocity, his stationary 
state in others equalizes the motion, so as to bring him 


271 


round in the proper number of days. Jupiter moving 
also in contrary rotation, but with less velocity, takes 
three hundred and sixty days to pass through one sign ; 
thus lengthening the duration of his circuit to eleven 
years and three hundred and twenty-three days before he 
returns to the sign in which he was seen twelve years 
before his setting out. Lastly, Saturn, remaining thirty- 
one months and some days in each sign, returns to his 
point of departure at the end of twenty-nine years, and 
about one hundred and sixty days, or nearly thirty years. 
Hence, the nearer he is to the extremity of the universe, 
the larger does his circuit appear, as well as the slower 
his motion. All’ those which make their circuit above 
that of the sun, especially when they are in trine aspect, 
do not advance, but, on the contrary, are retrograde, and 
seem to stop till the sun passes from the trinal sign into an- 
other. Some are of opinion, that this happens on account 
of their great distance from the sun, on which account 
their paths not being sufficiently lighted, they are re- 
tarded by the darkness. But I am not of that opinion, 
since the brightness of the sun is perceptible, evident and 
unobscured throughout the system, just as it appears to us, 
as well when the planets are retrograde as when they are 
stationary. If, then, our vision extends to such a distance, 
how can we imagine it possible to obscure the glorious 
splendour of the planets? It appears more probable, that 
it is the heat which draws and attracts all things to- 
wards itself: we, in fact, see the heat raise the fruits of 
the earth to a considerable height, and the spray of waters 
from fountains ascend to the clouds by the rainbow: in 
the same manner the excessive power of the sun spread- 
ing his rays in a triangular form, attracts the planets 


Q72 


which follow him, and, as it were, stops and restrains 
those which precede him, preventing them from leaving 
him, and, indeed, forcing them to return to him, and to 
remain in the other trinal sign. One may perhaps ask, 
whence it happens that the sun, by its heat, causes a 
detention in the fifth sign from itself, rather than in the 
second or third, which are nearer. This may be thus 
explained. Its rays diverge through the heavens in lines 
which form a triangle whose sides are equal. Those 
sides fall exactly in the fifth sign. For if the rays fell 
circularly throughout the system, and were not bounded 
by a triangular figure, the nearer places would be abso- 
lutely burnt. This seems to have struck the Greek poet, 
Euripides ; for he observes, that those places more dis- 
tant from the sun are more intensely heated than those 
temperate ones that are nearer to him: hence, in the 
tragedy of Phaéthon, he says, Kass: ra xoppw, ra Deyyue 
eduar eye. (The distant places burn, those that are 
near are temperate.) If, therefore, experience, reason, 
and the testimony of an antient poet, prove it, I do not 
see how it can be otherwise than I have above shewn. 
Jupiter performs his circuit between those of Mars and 
Saturn: thus it is greater than that of Mars, but less 
than that of Saturn. In short, all the planets, the more 
distant they are from the extremity of the heaven, and the 
nearer their orbit is to the earth, seem to move swifter; 
for those which have a smaller orbit, often pass those 
above them. ‘Thus, on a wheel similar to those in use 
among potters, if seven ants be placed in as many chan- 
nels round the centre, which are necessarily greater in pro- 
portion to their distance therefrom, and the ants are forced 
to make their circuits in these channels, whilst the wheel 


278 


moves round in an opposite direction, they will assuredly 
complete their circuit, notwithstanding the contrary mo- 
tion of the wheel; and, moreover, that nearest the 
centre will perform his journey sooner than he who 
is travelling in the outer channel of the wheel, who, 
though he move with equal velocity, yet, from the 
greater extent of his circuit, will require a longer 
time for its completion. It is even so with the pla- 
nets, which, each in its particular orbit, revolve in a 
direction contrary to the motion of the heavens, although, 
in their diurnal motion, they are carried backwards by 
its rotation. The reason why some planets are tempe- 
rate, some hot, and others cold, appears to be this; that 
all fire has a flame, whose tendency is upward. Hence 
the sun warms, by his rays, the air above him, wherein 
Mars moves, and that planet is therefore heated thereby. 
Saturn, on the contrary, who is near the extremity of the 
universe, and comes in contact with the frozen regions of 
the heavens, is exceedingly cold. Jupiter, however, 
whose orbit lies between those of the two just mentioned, 
is tempered by the cold and heat, and has an agreeable 
and moderate temperature. Of the band comprising the 
twelve signs, of the seven planets, and their contrary 
motions and orbits, also of the manner and time in which 
they pass from one sign into another, and complete their 
circuits, I have set forth all that I have learnt from au- 
thors. I will now speak of the moon’s increase and 
wane, as taught by the antients. Berosus, who travelled 
into Asia from the state or country of the Chaldeans, 
teaching his doctrines, maintained that the moon was a 
ball, half whereof was luminous, and the remaining half 
of a blue colour; and that when, in its course, it ap- 
NN 


274 


proached the sun; attracted by the rays and the force of 
the heat, it turned its bright side in that direction, from 
the sympathy existing between light and light; whence, 
when the sun is above it, the lower part, which is not lu- 
minous, is not visible, from the similarity of its colour to - 
the air. When thus perpendicular to the sun’s rays, all 
the light is confined to its upper surface, and it is then 
called the new moon. When it passes towards the east, 
the sun begins to have less effect upon it, and a thin line 
on the edge of its bright side emits its splendour towards 
the earth. ‘This is on the second day: and thus, from 
day to day, advancing in its circuit, the third and fourth 
days are numbered: but, on the seventh day, when the 
sun is in the west, the moon is in the middle, between 
the east and the west; and being distant from the sun 
half the space of the heavens, the luminous half side will 
be towards the earth. Lastly; when the sun and the moon 
are. the whole distance of the heavens from each other, 
and the former, passing towards the west, shines full on 
the moon behind it in the east, being the fourteenth day, 
it is then at the greatest distance from its rays, and the 
complete circle of the whole orb emits its light. In the 
remaining days it gradually decreases till the completion 
of the lunar month, and then returns to re-pass under 
the sun; its monthly rays being determined by the num- 
ber of days. I shall now subjoin what Aristarchus, the 
Samian mathematician, learnedly wrote on this subject, 
though of a different nature. He asserted, that the moon 
possesses no light of its own, but is similar to a speculum, 
which receives its splendour from the sun’s rays. Of 
the planets, the moon makes the smallest circuit, and is 
nearest to the earth; whence, on the first day of its 


275 


monthly course, hiding itself under the sun, it is invisi- 
ble; and when thus in conjunction with the sun, it is 
called the new moon. The following day, which is called 
the second, removing a little from the sun, it receives a 
small portion of light on its disc. When it is three days 
distant from him, it has increased, and become more 
illuminated ; thus daily elongating from him, on the se- 
venth day, being half the heavens distant from the west- 
ern sun, one half of it shines, namely, that half which is 
lighted by the sun. On the fourteenth day, being diame- 
trically opposite to the sun, and the whole of the heavens 
distant from him, it becomes full, and rises as the sun 
sets; and its distance being the whole extent of the hea- 
vens, it is exactly opposite to, and its whole orb receives, 
the light of the sun. On the seventeenth day, when the 
sun rises, it inclines towards the west; on the twenty- 
first day, when the sun rises, the moon is about mid-hea- 
ven, and the side next the sun is enlightened, whilst the 
other is in shadow. ‘Thus advancing every day, about 
the twenty-eighth day it again returns under the rays of 
the sun, and completes its monthly rotation. I will now 
explain how the sun, in his passage through a sign every 
month, causes the days and hours to increase and dimi- 
nish. 


276 


CHAPTER V. 


OF THE SUN’S COURSE THROUGH THE TWELVE SIGNS. 


Wuen the sun has entered the sign of Aries, and run 
through about an eighth part of it, it is the vernal equi- 
‘nox. When he has arrived at the tail of Taurus and 
the Pleiades, for which the fore part of the Bull is con- 
spicuous, he has advanced in the heavens more than half 
his course towards the north. From Taurus, he enters 
into Gemini, at the time when the Pleiades rise, and 
being more over the earth increases the length of the 
days. From Gemini entering into Cancer, which occupies 
the smallest space in the heavens, and coming to the 
eighth division of it he determines the solstice, and mov- 
ing forward arrives at the head and breast of Leo, which 
are parts properly within the division assigned to Cancer. 
From the breast of Leo and the boundaries of Cancer, 
the sun moving through the other parts of Leo, has by 
that time diminished the length of the day, as well as of his 
circuit, and resumes the equal motion he had when in 
Gemini. Hence from Leo passing to Virgo and pro- 
ceeding to the indented part of her garment, he con- 
tracts his circuit, which is now equal to that which it 
had in Taurus. Proceeding then from Virgo through the 
indentation which includes the beginning of Libra, in 
the eighth part of that sign, the autumnal equinox is com- 
pleted ; the circuit being then equal to that in the sign 
Aries. When the sun enters into Scorpio at the set- 
ting of the Pleiades, he diminishes, in passing to the 
southern parts, the length of the days ; and from Scorpio 


277 


passing to a point near the thighs of Sagittarius, he makes 
ashorter diurnal circuit. Then beginning from the thighs 
of Sagittarius, which are in Capricornus, at the eighth 
part of the latter he makes the shortest course in the 
heavens. ‘This time from the shortness of the days, is 
called Bruma (winter) and the days Brumales. From 
Capricornus passing into Aquarius, the length of the days 
is increased to that of those when he was in Sagittarius. 
From Aquarius he passes into Pisces at the time that the 
west wind blows; and his course is equal to that he 
made in Scorpio. Thus the sun travelling through these 
signs at stated times, increases and diminishes the du- 
ration of the days and hours. I shall now treat of the 
other constellations on the right and left of the zodiac, as 
well those on the south as on the north side of the 
heavens. 


278 


CHAPTER VI. 


OF THE NORTHERN CONSTELLATIONS. 


Tue Great Bear, which the Greeks call agro, and also 
éA‘xn, has his keeper behind him. Not far distant is the 
constellation of the Virgin, on whose right shoulder is a 
very brilliant star, called by us Provindemia Major, and by | 
the Greeks zegorgvyeros, which shines with extraordinary 
lustre and colour. Opposite to it is another star, between 
the knees of the Keeper of the Bear, which bears the 
name of Arcturus. Opposite the head of the Bear, across 
the feet of the Twins, is Auriga (the charioteer) standing 
on the point of the horns of the Bull, and on one side, 
above the left horn towards the feet of Auriga, there is a 
star called the hand of Auriga; on the other side the 
Goat’s Kids and the Goat over the left shoulder. Above 
both the Bull and the Ram stands Perseus, which on 
the right extends under the bottom of the Pleiades, on 
the left towards the head of the Ram; his right hand rests 
on the head of Cassiopeia, the left holding the Gorgon’s 
head by its top over the Bull, and laying it at the feet of 
Andromeda. Above Andromeda are the Fishes, one un- 
der her belly, and the other above the back of the Horse ; 
the brilliant star in the belly of the Horse is also in the 
head of Andromeda. The right hand of Andromeda is 
placed on the figure of Cassiopeia, the left upon the north 
eastern fish. Aquarius stands on the head of the horse ; 
the ears of the horse turn towards the knees of Aqua- 
rius, and the middle star of Aquarius is also common to 
Capricornus. Above on high is the Eagle and the Dol- 


279 


phin, and near them Sagitta. On the side is the Swan, 
the right wing of which is turned towards the hand and 
sceptre of Cepheus, the left leans on Cassiopeia, and un- 
der the tail of Avis the feet of the horse are hidden. 
Above Sagittarius, Scorpio, and Libra, comes the Serpent, 
the point of whose snout touches the Crown ; in the mid- 
dle of the Serpent is Ophiuchus, who holds the Serpent in 
his hands, and with his left foot treads on the head of the 
Scorpion. Near the middle of the head of Ophiuchus is 
the head of the Kneeler; their heads are easily distin- 
guished from being marked with luminous stars. The 
foot of the Kneeler is placed on the temple of the Ser- 
pent, which is entwined between the two northern bears, 
called Septentriones. The Dolphin is a short distance 
from them. Opposite the bill of the Swan is the Lyre. 
The Crown lies between the shoulders of the Keeper and 
the Kneeler. In the northern circle are two Bears, with 
their shoulders and breasts in opposite directions ; of 
these the Less is called zvvovovew, and the Larger éAixn 
by the Greeks. Their heads are turned downwards, and 
each of their tails is towards the other’s head, for both 
their tails are raised, and that which is called the pole- 
star, is that near the tail of the Little Bear. Between 
these tails, as we have before stated, extends the Serpent, 
who turns round the head of that nearest to him, 
whence he takes a folding direction round the head of the 
smaller bear, and then spreading under his feet, and 
rising up, returns and folds from the head of the Less 
to the Greater Bear, with his snout opposite and shew- 
ing the right temple of his head. The feet of Ce- 
pheus are also on the tail of the Small Bear; towards 
which part more above our heads, are the stars which 


280 


form the equilateral triangle above Aries. ‘There are 
many stars common to the Lesser Bear and Cepheus. I 
have enumerated the constellations which are in the 
heavens to the right of the east between the zodiac and 
the north. I shall now describe those which are distri- 
buted on the southern side to the left of the east. 


281 


CHAPTER VIL. 
OF THE SOUTHERN CONSTELLATIONS. 


First, under Capricornus is the southern Fish looking to- 
wards the tail of the Whale. Between it and Sagittarius 
is a vacant space. The Altar is under the sting of 
Scorpio. The fore parts of the Centaur are near Libra 
and Scorpio, and he holds in his hand that constella- 
tion which astronomers call the Beast. Near Virgo, 
Leo, and Cancer, the Snake stretches through a range 
of stars, and with its foldings encircles the region of 
Cancer, raising its snout towards Leo and on the middle 
of its body supporting«the cup; its tail extends towards 
the hand of Virgo, and upon that is the Crow; the 
stars on its back are all equally luminous. Under its 
belly, at the tail, is the Centaur. Near the cup and 
Leo is the ship Argo, whose prow is hidden, but the 
mast and parts about the steerage are clearly seen. The 
Ship and its poop touch the tip of the Dog’s tail. The 
smaller Dog is behind the Twins at the head of the 
Snake, and the larger follows the smaller Dog. Orion 
lies transversely under, pressed on by the hoof of the 
Bull, holding a shield in his left hand and with the club in 
his right hand raised towards Gemini; near his feet is 
the Dog at a short distance following the Hare. Below 
Aries and Pisces is the Whale, from whose top to the 
two Fishes a small train of stars, which the Greeks call 
‘Egundovn, regularly extends, and this ligature of the 
Fishes twisting considerably inwards, at one part touches 
the top of the Whale. A river of stars, in the shape 
00 


282 


of the river Po, begins from the left foot of Orion. The 
water that runs from Aquarius takes its course between 
the head of the southern Fish and the tail of the Whale. 
I have explained the constellations displayed and formed 
in the heavens by. nature with a divine intelligence, 
according to the system of the philosopher Democritus, 
confining myself to those whose rising and setting are 
visible. Some, however, such as the two Bears turning 
round the pole, never set nor pass under the earth. 
So also, the constellations about the south pole, which 
from the obliquity of the heavens is under the earth, are 
always hidden, and their revolution never brings them 
above the horizon. Whence the interposition of the earth 
prevents a knowledge of their forms. The constella- 
tion Canopus proves this, which is unknown in these coun- 
tries, though well known to merchants who have travelled 
to the extremity of Egypt and other boundaries of the 
earth. I have described the true circuit of the heavens 
about the earth, the arrangement of the twelve signs, also 
that of the northern and southern constellations, because 
therefrom, from the opposite course of the sun through the 
signs, and from the shadows of gnomons at the equinoxes, 
are formed the diagrams of analemmata. The rest which 
relates to astrology, and the effects produced upon human 
life by the twelve signs, the five planets, the sun and the 
moon, must be left to the discussions of the Chaldeans, 
whose profession it is to cast nativities, and by means of 
the configurations of the stars to explain the past and the 
future. The talent, the ingenuity, and reputation of 
those who come from the country of the Chaldeans, is 
manifest from the discoveries they have left us in writing. 
Berosus was the first of them. He ‘settled in the island 


283 


and state of Cos, and there established a school. After- 
wards came Antipater and Achinapolus, which latter not ; 
only gave rules for predicting a man’s fate by a know- 
ledge of the time of his birth, but even by that of the 
moment wherein he was conceived. In respect of natural 
philosophy Thales the Milesian, Anaxagoras of Clazo- 
mene, Pythagoras the Samian, Xenophanes of Colophon, 
Democritus the Abderite, have published systems which 
explain the mode in which Nature is regulated, and how 
every effect is produced. Eudoxus, Endemon, Callippus, 
Melo, Philip, Hipparchus, Aratus, and others, following 
in the steps of the preceding, found, by the use of instru- 
ments, the rising and setting of the stars and the. changes 
of the seasons, and left treatises thereon for the use of 
posterity. Their learning will be admired by mankind, 
because, added to the above, they appear as if by divine 
‘inspiration to have foretold the weather at particular sea- 
sons of the year. For a knowledge of these matters re- 
ference must therefore be made to their labours and 
investigation. 


284 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF DIALS BY THE 
ANALEMMA. 


From the doctrines of the philosophers above mentioned, 
are extracted the principles of dialling, and the explana- 
tion of the increase and decrease of the days in the differ- 
ent months. The sun at the times of the equinoxes, that 
is when he is in Aries or Libra, casts a shadow in the 
latitude of Rome equal to eight ninths of the length of the 
gnomon. At Athens the length of the shadow is three 
fourths of that of the gnomon. At Rhodes five sevenths ; 
at Tarentum nine elevenths ; at Alexandria three fifths ; 
and thus at all other places the shadow of the gnomon at 
the equinoxes naturally differs. Hence in whatever place 
a dial is to be erected, we must first obtain the equinoc- 
tial shadow. If, as at Rome, the shadow be eight ninths 
of the gnomon, let a line be drawn on a plane surface, in 
the center whereof is raised a perpendicular thereto ; 
this is called the gnomon, and from the line on the 
plane in the direction of the gnomon, let nine equal parts 
be measured. Let the end of the ninth part A, be con- 
sidered as a centre, and extending the compasses from 
that centre to the extremity B of the said line, let a circle 
be described. This is called the meridian. Then of 
those nine parts between the plane and the point of the 
gnomon, let eight be allotted to the line on the plane, 
whose extremity is marked C. This will be the equi- 
noctial shadow of the gnomon. From the point C through 
the centre A let a line be drawn, and it will be a ray of 


285 


the sun at the equinoxes. Then extend the compasses 
from the centre to the line on the plane, and mark on 
the left an equidistant point E, and on the right another, 
lettered I, and join them by a line through the centre, 
which will divide the circle into two semicircles. This 
line by mathematicians is called the horizon. A fifteenth 
part of the whole circumference is to be then taken, and 
placing the point of the compasses in that point of the 
circumference F, where the equinoctial ray is cut, mark 
with it to the right and left the points G and H. From 
these, through the centre, draw lines to the plane where 
the letters T and R are placed, thus one ray of the sun 
is obtained for the winter, and the other for the summer. 
Opposite the point E, will be found the point I, in which 
a line drawn through the centre, cuts the circumference ; 
and opposite to G and H the points K and L, and oppo- 
site to C, F, and A, will be the point N. Diameters are 
then to be drawn from G to L, and from H to K. The 
lower one will determine the summer, and the upper the 
winter portion. ‘These diameters are to be equally di- 
vided in the middle at the points M and O, and the 
points being thus marked, through them and the cen- 
tre A a line must be drawn to the circumference, where 
the letters P and Q are placed. This line will be per- 
pendicular to the equinoctial ray, and is called in mathe- 
matical disquisitions, the Axon. From the last obtained 
points as centres (M and QO) extending the compasses 
to the extremity of the diameter, two semicircles are to 
be described, one of which will be for summer, the other 
for winter: In respect of those points where the two 
parallels cut that line which is called the horizon ; on the 
right hand is placed the letter S, and on the left the letter V, 


286 


and at the extremity of the semicircle, lettered G, a line 
parallel to the Axon is drawn to the extremity on the 
left, lettered H. This parallel line is called Lacotomus. 
Finally, let the point of the compasses be placed in that 
point where this line is cut by the equinoctial ray, and 
letter the point X, and let the other point be extended to 
that where the summer ray cuts the circumference, and be 
lettered H. Then with a distance equal to that from 
the summer interval on the equinoctial point, as a centre, 
describe the circle of the months, which is called Mana- 
cus. ‘Thus will the analemma be completed. Having 
proceeded with the diagram and its formation, the hour 
lines may be projected on the analemma according to 
the place, either by winter lines, or summer lines, or 
equinoctial lines, or lines of the months, and as many 
varieties and species of dials as can be desired, may 
be constructed by this ingenious method. In all the 
figures and diagrams the effect will be the same, that is 
to say, the equinoctial as well as the solstitial days, will 
always be divided into twelve equal parts. These mat- 
ters, however, I pass over, not from indolence, but to 
avoid prolixity. I will merely add, by whom the different 
species and figures of dials were invented ; for I have 
not been able to invent a new sort, neither will I pass off 
the inventions of others as my own. I shall therefore 
mention those of which I have any information, and by 
whom they were invented. 


287 


CHAPTER IX. 
OF VARIOUS DIALS, AND THEIR INVENTORS. 


Berosus the Chaldean, was the inventor of the semi- 
circle, hollowed in a square, and inclined according to 
the climate. Aristarchus the Samian, of the Scaphe or 
Hemisphere, as also of the discus on a plane. The 
Arachne was the invention of Eudoxus the astrologer, 
though some attribute it to Apollonius. The Plinthium or 
Lacunar, an example of which is to be seen in the Circus 
Flaminius, was invented by Scopas the Syracusan. The 
sort called Ilgog ra icrogovmeve, by Parmenio. That 
called Ilgos xév xia, by Theodosius and Andrias. The 
Pelicinon by Patrocles. The Cone by Dionysodorus. The 
Quiver by Apollonius. The persons above mentioned not 
only invented other sorts; but the inventions of others 
have come down to us, such as the Gonarche, the Engo- 
natos, and the Antiboreus. Many also have left instructions 
for constructing the portable pendulous dial. When any 
one understands the formation of the analemma, he will 
be enabled, by reference to their writings, to suit them to 
any place. By the same writers have been discovered 
the method of making water dials. Ctesibius Alexandri- 
nus was the first who found out the properties of the 
wind, and of pneumatic power, the origin of which in- 
ventions is worthy of being known. Ctesibius, whose 
father was a barber, was born at Alexandria. Endowed 
with extraordinary talent and industry, he acquired great 
reputation by his taste for his mechanical contrivances. 


288 


Wishing to suspend a mirror in his father’s shop, in such 
a way that it might be easily raised and lowered by means 
of a concealed cord, he used the following expedient. 
Fixing a wooden tube under the beam, he attached 
pulleys to it upon which the cord passed and made an 
angle in descending into the wood which he had 
hollowed out: there he placed small tubes, within which 
a leaden ball attached to the cord was made to descend. 
It happened that the weight, in passing through the 
narrow parts of the tube, pressed on the inclosed air, 
and violently driving out at its mouth the quantity of air 
compressed in the tubes, produced by obstruction and 
contact a distinct sound. Ctesibius having thus observed 
that by the compression and concussion of the air, sounds 
might be produced, he made use of the discovery in his 
application of it to hydraulic machines, to those automata 
which act by the power of inclosed water, to lever and turn- 
ing engines, and to many other entertaining devices, but 
principally to water dials. First he made a.perforation in 
a piece of gold or a smooth gem, because these materials 
are not liable to be worn by the action of the water, nor 
to collect filth, by which the passage of the water might 
be obstructed: the water flowing through the hole 
equably, raises an inverted bowl, called by the workmen 
phellos, or the tympanum, with which are connected a 
rule and revolving drum wheels with perfectly equal 
teeth, which teeth, acting on one another, produce revo- 
lutions and measured motion. ‘There are other rules and 
other wheels, toothed in a similar manner, which acted 
upon by the same force in their revolutions, produce 
different species of motion, by which figures are made to 
move, cones are turned round, stones or oviform bodies 


289 


are ejected, trumpets sounded, and similar conceits ef- 
fected. On these also, either on columns or pillars, the 
hours are marked, to which a figure, holding a wand 
and rising from the lower part, points throughout the day, 
the increase and decrease whereof is daily and monthly 
adjusted, by adding or taking away certain wedges. To 
regulate the flow of the water, stoppers are thus formed. 
Two cones are prepared, one convex, the other concave, 
and rounded so as to fit exactly into each other. A 
rod, by elongating these, or bringing them together, 
increases or diminishes the flow of water into the vessel. 
In this manner, and according to the principles of this 
machine, water-dials for winter are constructed. If the 
addition or removal of the wedges should not be attended 
by a correspondent increase or decrease in the days, for 
the wedges are frequently imperfect, it is to be thus re- 
medied. Let the hours from the analemma be placed on 
the column transversely, and let the lines of the months 
be also marked thereon. The column is to turn round, 
so that, in its continual revolution, the wand of the 
figure, as it rises, points to the hours, and, according to 
the respective months, makes the hours long or short 
Other kinds of winter-dials are made, which are called 
Anaporica. They are constructed as follows. With the 
aid of the analemma the hours are marked by brazen 
rods on their face, beginning from the centre, whereon 
circles are drawn, shewing the limits of the months. Be- 
hind these rods a wheel is placed, on which are measured 
and painted the heavens and the zodiac with the figures 
of the twelve celestial signs, by drawing lines from the 
centre, which mark the greater and smaller spaces of each 
sign. On the back part of the middle of the wheel is 
PP 


290 


fixed a revolving axis, round which a pliable brass chain is 
coiled, at one of whose ends a phellos or tympanum hangs, 
which is raised by the water, and at the other end a coun- 
terpoise of sand equal to the weight of the phellos. ‘Thus 
as the phellos ascends by the action of the water, the coun- 
terpoise of sand descends and turns the axis, as does that 
the wheel, whose rotation causes at times the greater part 
of the circle of the zodiac to be in motion, and at other 
times the smaller ; thus adjusting the hours to the seasons. 
Moreover in the sign of each month are as many holes as 
there are days in it, and the index which in dials is gene- 
rally a representation of the sun, shews the spaces of the 
hours; and whilst passing from one hole to another, it 
completes the period of the month. Wherefore, as the sun 
passing through the signs, lengthens and shortens the 
days and hours, so the index of the dial, entering by the 
points opposite the centre round which the wheel turns, 
by its daily motions, sometimes in greater, at other times 
in less periods, will pass through the limits of the months 
and days. The management of the water, and its equa- 
ble flow, is thus regulated. Inside, behind the face of 
the dial, a cistern is placed, into which the water is con- 
veyed by a pipe. In its bottom is a hole, at whose 
side is fixed a brazen tympanum, with a hole in it, 
through which the water in the cistern may pass into it. 
Within this is inclosed a lesser tympanum attached to 
the greater, with male and female joints rounded, so that 
the lesser tympanum turning within the greater, simi- 
lar to a stopple, fits closely, though it moves easily. 
Moreover, on the lip of the greater tympanum are three 
hundred and sixty-five points, at equal distances. On 
the circumference of the smaller tympanum a tongue is 


291 


fixed, whose tip points to the marks. In this smaller 
tympanum a proportionable hole is made, through which 
the water passes into the tympanum, and serves the 
work. On the lip of the large tympanum, which is 
fixed, are the figures of the celestial signs; above, is the 
figure of Cancer, and opposite to it, below, that of Ca- 
pricornus. On the right of the spectator is Libra, on his 
left Aries. All the other signs are arranged in the 
spaces between these, as they are seen in the heavens. 
Thus, when the sun is in the portion of the circle occu- 
pied by Capricornus, the tongue stands in that part of the 
larger tympanum where Capricornus is placed, touching a 
different point every day: and as it then vertically bears 
the great weight of the running water, this passes with 
great velocity through the hole into the vase, which, re- 
ceiving it, and being soon filled, diminishes and contracts 
the lengths of the days and hours. When, by the diur- 
nal revolution of the lesser tympanum, the tongue enters 
Aquarius, all the holes fall perpendicular, and the flow of 
the water being thus lessened, it runs off more slowly ; 
whence the vase receiving the water with less velocity, 
the length of the hours is increased. Thus, going 
gradually through the points of Aquarius and Pisces, 
as soon as the hole of the small tympanum touches the 
eighth part of Aries, the water flows more gently, and 
produces the equinoctial hours. From Aries, through 
the spaces of Taurus and Gemini, advancing to the upper 
points where the Crab is placed, the hole or tympanum 
touching it at its eighth division, and arriving at the sum- 
mit, the power is lessened ; and hence running more slowly, 
its stay is lengthened, and the solstitial hours are thereby 
formed. When it descends from Cancer, and passes 


292. 


through Leo and Virgo, returning to the point of the 
eighth part of Libra, its stay is shortened by degrees, and 
the hours diminished, till, arriving at the same point of 
Libra, it again indicates the equinoctial hours. The hole 
being lowered through the space of Scorpio and Sagit- 
tarius, in its revolution it returns to the eighth division of 
Capricornus, and, by the velocity of the water, the winter 
hours are produced. To the best of my ability I have 
explained the construction and proportions of dials, so 
that they may be easily set up. It now remains for me 
to speak of machines, and the principles which govern 
them. ‘These will be found in the following book, and 
will complete this Treatise on Architecture. 


— == 


RS Sonia a ma 


A ee PE es Re ee se 


THE 


ARCHITECTURE 


OF 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


BOOK THE TENTH. 











INTRODUCTION. 


In the magnificent and spacious Grecian city of Ephesus 
_an _antient law was tnade by the ancestors of the inhabit- 
ants, hard ir ‘in its nature, but nevertheless equitable. 
When a architect was entrusted with the execution of 

a public\work, an estimate thereof being lodged in the 
_-hands of a magistrate, his property was held, as security, 
~~ until the work was finished. If, when finished, the expense 
did not exceed the estimate, he was complimented with 


294 


b \ ae ‘ 
\ | ig ‘decrees and hon So when the excess did not amount 
Lf 


to morethan a fourth part of the original estimate, it was 
defrayed by the public, and no punishment was inflicted. 
But when more than one-fourth of the estimate was ex- 
ceeded, he was required to pay the excess out of his own 
pocket. Would to God that such a law existed among 
the Roman people, not only in respect of their public, 


~~ but also of their private buildings, for then the unskilfal 


could not commit their depredations with impunity, and 
those who were the most skilful in the intricacies of the 
art would follow the profession. Proprietors would not be 
led into an extravagant expenditure so as to cause ruin; 
architects themselves, from the dread of punishment, 
would be more careful in their calculations, and the pro- 
prietor would complete his building for that sum, or a little 
more, which he could afford to expend. Those who can 
conveniently expend a given sum on any work, with the 
pleasing expectation of seeing it completed would cheer- 
fully add one-fourth more ; but when they find themselves 
burdened with the addition of half or even more than 
half of the expense originally contemplated, losing their 
spirits, and sacrificing what has already been laid out, 
they incline to desist from its completion. Nor is this an 
~evil which occursin buildings alone, but also in the shows 


—of_gladiators in the Forum, and in the scenes of plays 
_~exhibited by the magistrates, in which neither delay nor 


hindrance is admitted, since there is a necessity for their 
being completed by a certain time,. Thus the seats for 
viewing the shows, the machinery for drawing the Vela, 


disappointed. And in the preparation of all these much 


295 a 


readiness and profound thought must be exercised, be- 


‘i 


cause they Seok he: rece ius acting, and 
the application of varied and extensive studies. Since, 


therefore, this is the case, it does not seem foreign to our 
purpose, carefully and diligently to explain those princi- 
ples on which a work should be formed previous to com- 
mencing it. But as neither the law nor custom compels 
the adoption of such a practice, and the preetors and ediles 
are bound every year to provide the machinery for the 
sports, it appeared to me, O Emperor, highly expedient, 
as in the foregoing books I have treated on buildings, to 
explain in this which closes the treatise, the principles 
upon which such machines are constructed. 


— 


- 


—_—-_ 


(7 


296 


CHAPTER I. 


‘ 
OF MACHINES AND ENGINES. _-— 


POE EA 
A macuive is a combination of\ hear capab’ 


moving great weights. It derives its power 
that circular application of amotion which the Greeks 


call xuxdunn ximoig. The first species is for scaling (scan- ~~~ 


soria), which the Greeks call axgoGcr:xo¢. The second, 
wherein the wind is the moving power, is, by the Greeks, 
called avevmarines, The third sort of machine is for 
draft, and they call it Bd&veveos. The scaling, machine 
is constructed for the purpose of ascending, ‘without 
danger, to view works of considerable “altitude, and is 
formed of long pieces of timber connected together by 
transverse pieces. The pneumatic machine is for the 
purpose of imitating the sounds of stringed and wind in- 
struments, by means of a rush of air organically intro- 
duced. Machines of draft~are constructed for the pur- 
pose of removing or raising great weights. The scaling 
machine is one more of_boldness than art, being a com- 
bination of longitudinal timbers connected together by 
cross pieces, the splicings well lashed together, and the 
whole supported by shores or props. But the machine 
which, by the action of wind, produces very pleas- 
ing effects, requires great ingenuity in its construction. 
The machines for draft perform much greater and moré 
important operations, in their application to different pur- 
poses, and, when_skilfully managed, are of great utility. 
Of these some act mockinicallp- ollie onpanialicentts 


difference between machines and organs is this, that the 


297 


former are composed of many subordinate parts, or pro- 
pelled by a great power, as balistee for instance, and 
wine-presses ; whereas, the latter, by an ingenious ap- 
"plication of the moving power, can be set in motion by 
a single person, as in turning the axis of the scorpion 
oF anisocycli. ‘Thus organs, as well as machines, are 
extremely useful and necessary, inasmuch as, without 
them, no works could be carried into execution. The 
__laws of mechanics are founded on those of nature, and 
"are illustrated by studying the master-movements of the 
universe itself, _ For if we consider the sun, moon and 
“tie Boe planets, we shall perceive, that if they were not 
duly poised in their orbits, we should neither have light 
on the earth, nor heat to mature its fruits. Our ances- 
tors reasoned so on these motions, that they adopted na- 
ture as their_model; and, led to an imitation of the 
divine institutions, invented machines necessary for the 
purposes of life. That these might be suitable to their 
different purposes, some were constructed with wheels, — 
and were called machines; others were denominated 
organs. ‘Those which were found most useful were gra- 
dually improved, by repeated experiments, by-art, and 7 
by the laws which they “instituted. Let us, for an in- 
stant, reflect on an invention, necessarily of an early 
period, that of clothing; wherein, by the organic ar- 
Se rangement of the loom, the connexion of the warp to 


the woof not only defends our bodies by the covering it 
affords, but is likewise an ornament to them. Again; 
how should we be supplied with food, but for the yokes 
_——~-and_ploughs to which oxen ‘and other animals are har- 
nessed? Without the aid of wheels and axles, of presses \/ _ faa ‘ 
and levers, we could enjoy neither the comforts of good \ \| 
Qe 


298 


oil, nor of the fruit of the vine. Without the aid of carts 
and waggons-on land, and ships on the sea, we should 
__be unable to transport any of our commodities,» How 


ee 


dealings, to_protect us ‘from fraud. Not less so are in- 
numerable different machines, which it is unnecessary here 
to discuss, since they are so well known from our daily 
use of them, such as wheels generally, the blacksmith’s 
bellows, chariots, caléches, lathes, and other things which 
our habits constantly require. We will, therefore, pro- 


ceed to explain, in the first place, those which are more 
rarely wanted. 


299 


CHAPTER II. 


pi Ae oe 
« ar 2S 


OF MACHINES OF DRAUGHT. 


We will begin by describing those engines which are 
chiefly used in the erection of sacred buildings, and other 
public works. They are made as follows: three pieces 
of timber are prepared suitable to the greatness of the 


ee connected at the top by a pin, but 
spreading extensively at their feet. These are raised by 


—— 


means of ropes made fast to the top, and when raised, are 
thereby kept steady. To the top is then made fast a 
block, by some called rechamus. In this block are two 


pulleys, turning-on axles; over the upper pulley passes 


the leading rope, which, let fall and drawn through un- 
der the lower pulley of the bottom block is returned 
thence over the lower pulley of the upper block: the 
rope again descends to the lower block, and its end is 
made fast to the eye of it. We refer the other end of the 
rope to the description of the lower part of the machine. 
On the back faces of the pieces of timber, where they 
diverge, are fixed socket-pieces (chelonia), for the gud- 
geons of the axles to work, so that they may revolve freely. 
The axles at the ends near the gudgeons, are pierced 
with two holes, so adjusted as to fit and receive the 
levers. Iron shears are then made fast to the under part 
of the lower block, whose teeth are received in holes 
cut in the piece of stone, for the purpose. The loose 


800 


end of the rope being now attached to the axle, and 
that turned round by means of the levers, the rope, in 
winding round the axle, raises the weight to its height 
and place in the work. 


301 


CHAPTER III. 


OF ANOTHER SORT OF MACHINE OF DRAUGHT. 


A BLOocK containing three pulleys is denominated Tri- 


spastos ; when the lower system has two—pulteys,-and——__— 


the upper one three, Pentaspastos. A machine for rais- 
ing heavier weights requires longer and stouter beams, 
and the pins for joining them at top, as well as the axle 
below, must be increased in proportion. Having pre- 
mised this, the raising ropes lying loose, are first dis- 
tributed ; then to the shoulders of the machine are made 
fast the guys, which, if there be no place to which they 
can be otherwise firmly fixed, must be attached to slopin 


piles driven into the ground, and steadied by ramming ~ 


the ground about them. A block is to be now slung to 
the head of the machine, round which ropes must be car- 
ried to another block which has been previously fastened 
to a stake, and, passing over its pulley, must be returned 
to that on the top of the machine, round which the rope 
passes and descends to the axle at bottom, to which 


<—~_it is lashed. The axle is now turned round by means 


of the levers, and the machine is put in motion with- 
out danger. Thus the ropes being disposed around, and 
the guys firmly fastened to the stakes, a machine is sta- 
tioned for use. The pulleys and leading ropes are ap- 
plied as described in the foregoing chapter. 





302 


CHAPTER IV. 


OF A SIMILAR MACHINE, OF GREATER POWER. 


Ir exceedingly large weights are to be raised, they must 
not be trusted to a mere axle; but the axle being retained 
by the gudgeons, a large drum should be fixed on it, 
—~ which some call a -wheel (tympanum): the Greeks 
name ee ee In these machines the 
blocks are constructed differently from those already de- 
scribed. Having, at top and bottom, two ranks of pulleys, 
the rope passes through a hole in the lower block, so that 
each end of the rope is equal in length when extended. 
It is there bound and made fast to the lower block, and 
both parts of the ropes so retained, that neither of them 
may swerve either to the right or the left. The ends 
of the rope are then returned to the outside of the upper 
block, and carried over its lower pulleys; whence they 
descend to the lower block, and passing round its pulleys 
on the inner side, are carried up right and left over the 
tops of the higher pulleys of the upper block; whence 
descending on the outer sides, they are secured to the 
axle on the right and left of the drum-wheel, about 
which another rope is now wound, and carried to the 
capstan. On the turning of the capstan, the drum-wheel 
and axle, and consequently the ropes fastened to it, are 
set in action, and raise the weights gently and without 
danger. But if a larger drum-wheel be affixed, either in 
the middle or on one of the sides, of such_ dimensions 
that men may walk therein;-a more effectual power is Ob- 
tained than the capstan will afferd, —_-— 


808 


CHAPTER V. 


OF ANOTHER MACHINE OF DRAUGHT. 


Tuere is another species of machine, ingenious in respect 
of its contrivance, and of ready application in practice ; 


but it should not be used except by experienced persons. _—\\\ 
A pole or log of timber is raised: ana Yeprin iis aeagtion 


___~by means of four guy ropes in opposite directions. Under 


the place where the guy ropes at top are made fast to the 
pole, two cheeks are fixed, above which the block is tied 
with ropes. Under the block, a piece of timber about 
two feet long, six inches wide, and four inches thick, is 


placed. The blocks have three ranks of pulleys latitudi- \, 
nally, so that it is necessary to conduct three latinesas! 0% 

from the upper part of the machine ag carey ten oe ee 
down to the lower block, and are passed through its up- 

‘per pulleys from the side next the pole. They then are 

carried to the upper block, passing from the outer sides 

of the lower pulleys to the inner sides of the lower pul- 

leys of the upper block. Descending once more to the 

inferior block, they pass round the second rank of pul- 

leys from the inner to the outer side, and are then re- 

turned to the second rank of pulleys in the higher block, 

over which they pass and return to the lowest, whence 

they are again carried upwards, and passing round the 

uppermost pulley, return to the lower part of the ma- 

chine. A third block is fixed near the bottom of the 

pole, whose Greek name is éréyav, but with us it is called 

Artemo. This block, which is made fast to the pole at a 

small distance from the ground, has three pulleys through 


304: 


which the ropes are passed, for the men to work them. _ 


‘__ Thus, three sets of men, working without the interven- 


tion of a capstan, quickly raise the weight to its required 


height. This species of machine is called Polyspaston, 
because the facility and dispatch in working it, is obtain- 


_ed by means of many pulleys. One convenience in using 


a single “pole is, that the situation of the weight in rela- 
tion to the pole, whether before it or to the right or left 
of it, is of no consequence. All the machines above de- 
scribed, are not only adapted to the purposes mentioned, 


but are also useful in loading and unloading ships, some 
upright, others horizontal, with a rotatory motion., On 


eg aren 


Ss are drawn on shore by the mere application of blocks and 


ropes. 


OF CTESIPHON’ 


Ir will be useful 


$05 


CHAPTER VI. 


S CONTRIVANCE FOR REMOVING 
GREAT WEIGHTS. 


to explain the ingenious contrivance 


of Ctesiphon. When he removed from the quarry the 


—— shafts of the ee AS which he had prepared for the 
. 5 . = t ee ee rae — 


t Ephesus, not thinking it prudent to 


trust them on carriages, lest their weight should sink the 


wheels in the soft 


roads over which they would have to 


pass, he devised the following scheme. He made a frame 


of four pieces of 


timber, two of which were equal in 


shaft he inserted iron pivots, heme ends were dove- 


tailed thereinto, and run with lead. The pivots worked 


in gudgeons fasten 


ed to the timber frame, whereto were 


attached oaken shafts. The pivots having a free revolu- 
tion in the gudgeons, when the oxen were attached and 
drew the frame, the shafts rolled round, and might have 
been conveyed to any distance. The shafts having been 
thus transported, the entablatures were to be removed, 
when Metagenes the son of Ctesiphon, applied the prin- 
ciple upon which the shafts had been conveyed to the re- 
moval of those also. He constructed wheels about twelve 


feet diameter, and 


fixed the ends of the blocks of stone 


| prereot this entablature was composed into them ; pivots 
and gudgeons were then prepared to receive them in the 
manner just described, so that when’ the oxen drew the 
machine, the pivots turning in the gudgeons, caused the 


RR 


“~~ 


A 


i 
fy 


M1 


306 


wheels to revolve, and thus the blocks, being enclosed 
like axles in the wheels, were brought to the work with- 


————out delay, as were the shafts of the columns. An ex- 


ies eh 


ample of this species of machine may be seen in the 





rolling stone used for smooting the walks in paleestree. 
But the method would not have been practicable for any 
considerable distance. From the quarries to the temple 


is a length of not-mere than eight thousand feet, and the 
interval! i isa a plain \ without any declivity, Within our own 


times, when the base of the colossal statue of Apollo in 
the temple of that god, was decayed through age, to 
prevent the fall and destruction of it, a contract for a 
base from the same quarry was made with Peonius. It 
was twelve feet long, eight feet wide, and six feet high. 
Peonius, driven to an expedient, did not use the same as 
Metagenes did, but constructed a machine for the pur- 
pose, by a different application — of the same principle. — 

He made two-wheels about fifteen feet diameter, and 
fitted the ends of the stone into these wheels. To con- 
nect the two wheels he framed into them, round their 
circumference, small pieces of two inches square not more 
than one foot apart, each extending from one wheel to 


the other, and thus enclosing the stone. Round these 


bars“ “rope was coiled, to which the traces of the « 


were made fast, and as it was drawn out, the stone rolled 
on by means of the wheels, but the machine by its con- 
stantly swerving from a direct straightforward path, stood 
in need of constant Kanani so. that Peeonius. was at 

Ries matt 


a eed 


Mn 


CHAPTER VII. 


OF THE DISCOVERY OF THE QUARRY WHENCE STONE 
WAS PROCURED FOR THE TEMPLE OF DIANA AT 
EPHESUS. 


I must digress a little, and relate how the quarries of 
Ephesus were discovered. A shepherd, of the name of 
Pixodarus, dwelt in these parts at the period in which the 
Ephesians had decreed a temple to Diana, to be built of 
marble from Paros, Proconnesus, or Thasos. Pixodarus 
on a certain occasion tending his flock at this place, saw 
two rams fighting. In their attacks, missing each 
other, one fell, and glancing against the rock with 
his horns, broke off a splinter, which appeared to him 
so delicately white, that he left his flock and instantly ran 
with it into Ephesus, where marble was then in much de- 
mand. The Ephesians forthwith decreed him honours, 
and changed his name to Evangelus. Even to this day 
the chief magistrate of the city proceeds every month to 
the spot, and sacrifices to him; the omission of which 
ceremony would, on the magistrate’s part, be attended 
with penal consequences to him. 


308 


CHAPTER VIII. 


OF THE PRINCIPLES OF MECHANICS. 


I nave briefly explained the principles of machines of 
draught, in which, as the powers and nature of the mo- 
tion are different, so they generate two effects, one di- 


ee = 


rect, which the Greeks call evééia, the other circular, 
which they call zvzAwr7; but it must be confessed, that™ 
rectilinear without circular motion, and, on the other hand, 
circular without rectilinear motion can neither without 


‘P ~ the other be of much assistance in raising weights. I will 


: proceed to the explanation of this. The pulleys revolve 
oh axles which go across the blocks, and are acted upon 


a ~——by straight ropes which coil round the axle of the wind- 


lass when that is put in motion by the levers, thus causing 
the weight to ascend. The pivots of the windlass axle 
are received into, or play in the gudgeons of the cheeks, 
and the levers being inserted in the holes provided for 


iron lever being applied to a weight which many hands 
could not remove; if a_fulcrum, which the Greeks call_ 
vrouovasor, be placed ander Gand the tongue of the 
lever be under the weight, one man’s strength at the 
end will raise the weight. This is accounted for by 
the fore part of the lever being under the weight, and 
at a shorter distance from the fulcrum or centre of 
motion ; whilst the longest part, which is from the cen- 
tre of motion to the head being brought into circular.mo- 
tion, the application of few hands to it will raise a great 








309 


weight. So if the tongue of the lever be placed under 

the weight, and instead of the end being pressed down- 

ward it be lifted up, the tongue then having the ground 

for a fulcrum, will act on that as in the first instance it 
ST ar the weight: and the tongue will press against the 

side thereof as it did on the fulcrum: though by this 

means the weight will not. be so easily raised, yet it may — 

be thus moved. If the tongue of the lever lying on the 

fulcrum be placed too far under the weight, and the end ; 

be too near the centre of pressure, it will be-without 

effect ; so, as hath been already mentioned, will it be, 

unless the distance from the fulcrum to the end of the 

lever be greater than from_the-fulcrum_to the tongue 

thereof. Any one will perceive the application of this prin- 

ciple in the instruments called steelyards (staterae) ; for 

when the handle of suspension, on which as a centre the 

beam turns, is placed nearer the end from which the 

scale hangs, and, on the other side of the centre, the 

weight be shifted to the different divisions on the beam, the 

further it is from the centre, the greater will be the load A ee 


in the scale which it is capable of raising, and that through eed 
—the equilibraliea-oF the-beam—Thusy a -amall weight, : 
which, placed near the centre, would have but a feeble Kye 
effect, may in a moment acquire power, and raise with 
——~ease a very h ad. Thus also the steersman of a 
merchant ship, holding the tiller which the Greeks call 
oia& with only one hand, by the situation of the centre_ 
moves it in a moment as the nature of the case requires, 
and turns the ship though ever so deeply laden. The 
sails also, if only half mast high, will cause the vessel to 
sail slower than when the yards are hoisted up to the top 
of the mast, because not then being near the foot of 


tt 
(p pe 
o - ws 
7” ~ ¢ 310 
7 = ~the-mast, which i is as it were the e centre, bu but at ¢ at a distance: 
< _ therefrom, | they are acted on ‘by the wind wit _with_ greater 
> _force. For as, if the fulcrum be “placed “aikek the middle 


2 of a lever, it is but with difficulty that the weight is 

a moved, and that only when the power is applied at the 

os _» extremity of the lever, so when the sails are no higher 

pp ¢ ps than the middle of the mast, they have less effect on the 
S motion of the vessel: when, however, raised to the top 
w ~ oe _~of the mast, the impulsethey-receive from an equal-wind 
eg higher up, causes a quicker motion in the ship. For the 
“i f S ¥ same reason the oars, which are made fast with rope to the 
ol thowls, when plunged into the water and drawn back by 
the hand, impel the vessel with great force, and cause the 
prow thereof to cleave the waves, if their blades are at a 

g © _ considerable distance from the centre, which is the thowl. 

\ Also, when loads of great weight are carried by porters 
\ in gangs of four or six, the levers are so adjusted in the 
middle that each porter may be loaded with a proper pro- 

iA /\_portion of the burden. The middle parts of the levers 
ae for four persons over which the tackle passes, are pro- 
vided with pins to prevent it sliding out of its place, for 
\ nj\ ies a ate aa the weight will press more on 
: t ulders of him to whom it is nearest, just as in the 
steelyard the weight is shifted towards the end of the 

beam. Thus also oxen have an equal draft when the piece 

__which suspends the pole hangs exactly from the middle 

of the yoke. But when oxen are not equally strong, 

the method of apportioning to each his due labour is by 

__ shifting the suspending piece so that one side of the yoke 
ale loses ETE oe and thus relieve the weak- 

er animal. It is the same in the porters’ levers as in 

yokes, when the suspending tackle is not in the centre, 


311 


and one arm of the lever is longer than the other, namely 
M that towards which the-tackle has shifted; for in this 
~ case if the lever turn upon the points to which the tackle 
has slid, which now becomes its centre, the longer arm 


will describe a portion of a larger circle, oa paar 

-___asmaller circle. Now as small wheels revolve with more 

oT ahicalie tan larger ones, so levers and yokes prose most_//\\ 
on the side which is the least distance from the fulcrum, : 
and on the contrary they ease those who bear that 
arm which is at the greatest distance from the fulcrum. 
Inasmuch as all these machines regulate either rectilinear 
or circular motion by means of the centre or fulcrum, 
so also waggons, chariots, drumwheels, wheels of car- 
riages, screws, scorpions, balistae, presses, and other in- 
struments, for the same reasons produce their effects by 


ans of rectilinear and circular motions. 
ne ae . 


? 


$12 


CHAPTER IX. 


OF ENGINES FOR RAISING WATER; AND FIRST OF 
THE TYMPANUM. 


I satu now explain the machines for raising water, and 
their various sorts. And first the tympanum, which, 
. though it raise not the water to a great height, yet lifts 
a large quantity in a small period of time. An axis is 


a 

















hooped with iron at the ends; round the middle whereof 
the tympanum, formed of planks fitted together, is ad- 
justed. This axis rests on posts also cased with iron 
where the axis touches them. In the hollow part of the 
tympanum are distributed eight diagonal pieces, going 
from the axis to the circumference of the tympanum, 
which are equidistant. The horizontal face of the wheel 
or tympanum is close boarded, with apertures therein 
half a foot in size to admit the water. On the axis also 
channels are cut for each bay. This machine, when 
moored like a ship, is turned round by men walking in 
a wheel attached to it, and, by receiving the water in the 
apertures which are in front of the wheel, brings it up 
through the channels on the axle into a trough, whence 
it is conducted in abundance to water gardens, and di- 
lute salt in-pits. If it be necessary to raise the water to 
a higher level, it must be-differently adjusted, The wheel, 
in that case, applied to the axis must be of such diameter 
that it shall correspond with the requisite height. Round 
the circumference of the wheel buckets, made tight with 
pitch and wax, are fixed; thus when the wheel is made to 


313 


revolve by means of the persons treading in it, the buck- 
ets being carried to the top full of water, as they return 
downwards, discharge the water_they bring up-into_a_ 
conduit. But if water is to be supplied to still higher 
places, a double chain of iron is_made to revolve on the 
axis of the wheel, long enough to reach to the lower 
level ; this is furnished with brazen buckets, each hold- 
ing about a gallon. Then by turning the wheel, the 
chain also turns on the axis, and brings the buckets to 
the top thereof, on passing which they are inverted, and 


pour into the conduits the water they have raised. 
— oo Beene : 


ss 


314 


CHAPTER X. 


OF ANOTHER SORT OF TYMPANUM, AND OF WATER- 
MILLS. 


~ _WHEELS-on-rivers are constructed upon the same princi- 
ples as those just described. Round their circumference 
____are fixed paddles, which, when acted upon by the force 
of the current, drive the wheel round, receive the water _ 

in the buckets, and carry it to the top with the aid of 


PR Taare: Rash ade pldieobatte: Up 
ing what isTequired. Water-mills aré on the same 
principle, and are in all respects similar, except that at 
one end of the axis they are provided with a drum-wheel, 
toothed and framed fast to the said axis; this being 
placed vertically on the edge turns round with the wheel. 
Corresponding with the drum-wheel a larger horizontal 
toothed wheel is placed, working on an axis whose up- 
per head is in the form of a dovetail, and is inserted 
into the mill-stone. Thus the teeth of the drum-wheel 
which is made fast to the axis acting on the teeth of the 
horizontal wheel, produce the revolution of the mill-stones 
and in the engine a suspended hopper supplying them 
with grain, in the same revolution the flour is produced. 


815 


CHAPTER XI. 
OF THE WATER SCREW. 


TueEre is a machine, on the principle of the screw, which 
raises water with considerable power, but not so high as 
the wheel. It is contrived_as follows. A beam is pro- 
cured whose thicknessy in it inches, is equal to its length in 
feet} this is rounded. Its ends, circular, are then di- 
vided by compasses, on their circumference, into four or 
eight parts, by diameters drawn thereon. These lines 
must be so drawn, that when the beam is placed in an 
horizontal direction, they may respectively and horizon- 


tally correspond with each other. The whole length of 


the beam must be divided into spaces equal to one eighth 
part of the circumference thereof. Thus the circular 
and longitudinal divisions will be equal, and the latter in- 
tersecting lines drawn from one end to the other, will be 
marked by points. These lines being accurately drawn, 
a small flexible ruler of willow or withy, smeared with 
liquid pitch, is attached at the first point of intersection, 
and made to pass obliquely through the remaining inter- 
sections of the longitudinal and circular divisions ; whence 


progressing and winding through each point of intersec- ~ 


tion it arrives and stops in the same line from which 
it started, receding from the first to the eighth point, to 
which it was at first attached. In this manner, as it pro- 
gresses through the eight points of the circumference, so 
- it proceeds to the eighth point lengthwise. Thus, also, 
fastening similar rules obliquely through the circum- 


V 
\ Yn \s 


uf 
ba 


fV 


/ } } Lave 


rif 


a 


316 


ferential and longitudinal intersections, they will form 
eight channels round_the shaft, in the form of a screw. _ 


“To these rules or slips others are attached, also smeared 


with liquid pitch, and to these still others, till the thick- 
ness of the whole be equal to one eighth part of the 
length. On the slips or rules planks are fastened all 
round, saturated with pitch, and bound with iron hoops, 
that the water may not injure them. The ends of the 
shaft are also strengthened-with iron nails and 1 hoops, and 
have iron pivots inserted into them. On the right and 
left of the screw are beams, with a cross piece at top and 
bottom, each of which is provided with an iron gudgeon, 
for the pivots of the shaft to turn in, and then, by the 
treading of men, the screw is made to.revolye. ‘The in- 
clination at which the screw is to be warked, is equal to 
that of the right angled triangle of Pythagoras: that is, 
if the length be divided into five parts, three of these 
will give the height that the head is to be raised; thus 
four parts will be the perpendicular to the lower mouth. 
~ The method of-constructing it maybe seen in the dia- 
gram at the end of the book. I have now described, as 
_accurat ely as_possible, the engines which are made of 


~ wood, for or raising wa water, the manner-of co constructing ‘them, 


__and_the powers that are applied t to put them in motion, 


together with the great agent: to be derived from 
the use of them. Seog oat 


~——— 


317 


CHAPTER XII. 


OF THE MACHINE OF CTESIBIUS FOR RAISING 
WATER TO A CONSIDERABLE HEIGHT. 


Ir is now necessary to explain the machine of Ctesibius, _) \ 


which raises water to a height. It is made of brass, and JU \ 


Se ren aa oe 

at the bottom are two buckets near each other, having es 
pipes annexed in the shape of a fork, which meet ata ~~ 
basin in the middle. In the basin are valves nicely 

fitted to the apertures of the pipes, which, closing the 

holes, prevent the return of the liquid which has been 

the “basin is ; a cover like an inverted funnel, fitted and 
fastened to it with-a-tivet, that the | force a oils wate 

may not blow it off On this a pipe, called a trumpet, 

is fixed upright. Below the lower orifices of the pipes—— 
the buckets are furnished witly valves over. the holes 

in their bottoms. Pistons made“ rou’ round d_and_ smooth, _ pee 
_and well oiled, are now fastened to the buckets, and 
worked from above with h bars and levers, which, by their 
alternate action, frequently repeated, press the air in 
the pipes, and the water being prevented from returning 
by the closing of the valves, is forced and conducted 
into the basin through the mouths of the pipes; whence 
the force of the air, which presses it against the cover, 
drives it upwards through the pipe: thus water on a 
lower level may be raised to a reservoir, for the supply 

- of fountains. Nor is this the only machine which Ctesi- 
bius has invented. There are many others, of different 
forts, es prove that liquids, in a state _of pressure 


318 


from the air, produce many natural effects, as those _ 
which imitate the voices of singing birds, and the engi- 


~ bita, which move figures that seem to drink, and perform 


__ other actions pleasing to the senses of sight and hearing. 


From these inventions I have selected those which are 
most pleasing and necessary, and described them in my 
treatise on dialling: in this place I confine myself to 
those which act by the impulse of water. ‘The others, 
which are more for pleasure than utility, may be seen by 
the curious in.the writings of ‘ee, 


ahs 


$19 


CHAPTER XIII. 


OF WATER ENGINES. 


I cannot here omit a brief explanation, as clearly as I 
can give it, of the principles on which hydraulic organs 
are constructed. A base of framed wood-work is pre- 
pared, on which is placed a brazen box. On the base, 
right and left, uprights are fixed, with cross pieces like 
those of a ladder, to keep them together ; between which 
are enclosed brass barrels with moveable bottoms, per- 
fectly round, having iron rods fixed in their centres, and 
covered with | leather. and woollen, attached by pins to the 
levers._ There are also, on the upper surface, holes about ——— 
\ three inches diameter, in which, near the pin-joint, are 
brazen dolphins with chains hanging from their_mouths, 
which sustain the valves that descend below the holes 
of the barrels. Within the box, where the water is de- 
posited, there is a species of inverted funnel, under which 
two collars, about three inches high, answer the purpose 
of keeping it level, and preserving the assigned distance 
between the lips of the wind-chest and the bottom of the 
box. On the neck a chest, framed together, sustains 
the head of the instrument, which in Greek is called 
xavav woveimos (canon musicus); upon which, lengthwise, 
are channels, hss gh ster 
he six a hexachordal and eight™ ochordal 


with iron pennies on pressing down -which, the 
communication between the chest and the channels is 
opened. Along the channels is a range of holes cor. 


— 


$20 


responding with others on an upper table, called iva 
in Greek. Between this table and the canon, rules are 
interposed, with corresponding holes well oiled, so that 
~they may be easily pushed.and return ; “they aie alled 
pleuritides, and are for the purpose of 8 stopping and open- 
ing the holes along the channels, which they do by pass- - 
ing backwards and forwards. ‘These rules have iron 
jacks attached to them, and being united to the keys, 
when those are touched.they move the rules. Over the 
table there are holes through which the wind passes into 
the pipes. Rings are fixed in the rules, for the reception 
of the feet of the organ-pipes. From the barrels run 
pipes joined to the neck of the wind-chest, which com- 
municate with the holes in the chest, in which pipes are 
closely fitted valves; these, when the chest is supplied 
with wind; ~sérve to close their orifices, and prevent its 
escape. ‘Thus, when the levers are raised, the piston- 
rods are depressed to the bottom of the barrel, and the 
dolphins turning on their pivots, suffer the valves at- 
tached to them to descend, thus filling with air the cavi- 
ties of the barrels. Lastly; the pistons in the barrels 
being alternately raised and depressed with a quick mo- 
tion, cause the valves to stop the upper holes: the air, 
therefore, which is pent, escapes into the pipes, through 
which it passes into the wind-chest, and thence, by its 
neck, to the box. By the quick motion of the levers still 
compressing the air, it finds its way through the aper- 
tures of the stops, and fills the channels with wind. 
- Hence, when the keys are touched by hand, they propel 
and repel the rules, alternately stopping and opening the 
holes, and producing a varied melody founded upon the 
~——-tules of music. I have done eye utmost to > give a clear 


321 

explanation of a complex machine. ‘This has been no 
easy task, nor, perhaps, shall I be understood, except by, 
those who are experienced in matters of this nature. 
Such, however, as comprehend but a little of what I~ 
have written, would, if they saw the instrument, be com- 
pelled to acknowledge the skill exhibited in its contriv- 
ance. 


os 


322 


CHAPTER XIV. 


OF MEASURING A JOURNEY. 


_ Ler us now consider an invention by no. means useless, 
and delivered to us_by the antients as of ingenuity, 
by means of which, when on a journey sea,. 
one may ascertain the distance travelled. It is as fol- 
lows. ‘The wheels of the chariot must be four feet dia- 
meter; so that, marking a certain point thereon, whence 
it begins its revolution on the ground, when it has com- 
pleted that revolution, it will have gone on the road over a 
space equal to twelve feet_and a half. This being adjust- 
ed on the inner side of the nave of the wheel, let a drum- 
wheel be securely fixed, having one small tooth project- 
ing beyond the face of its circumference ; and in the body 
of the chariot let a small box be fastened, with a drum- 
wheel placed to revolve perpendicularly, and fastened to 
an axle. The latter wheel is to be equally divided, on its 
edge, into four hundred teeth, corresponding with the 
teeth of the lower drum-wheel: besides the above, the 
upper drum-wheel has on its side one tooth projecting out 
before the others. Above, in another enclosure, is a third 
horizontal wheel toothed similarly, and so that the teeth 
correspond with that tooth which is fixed to the side of the 
second wheel. In the third wheel just described are as 
many holes as are equal to the number of miles in an usual 
day’s journey. It does not, however, signify, if they 
be more or less. In all the holes let small balls be placed, 

Ser iip ae or lining let a hole be made, having a 


channel, through which each ball may fall into the box 


323 


of ‘the chariot, and the brazen vessel placed under it. 
Thus, as the wheel proceeds, it acts on the first drum- 
wheel, the tooth of which, in every revolution, striking 
the tooth of the upper wheel, causes it to move on; so 
that when the lower wheel has revolved four hundred 
_~_times, the _ Faaaieamneroneng tS and its 
tooth, which is on the side, will have acted on only one 
tooth of the horizontal wheel. Now as in four hundred 
revolutions of the lower wheel, the upper wheel will only ] \ 
have turned round once, the length of the journey will ~ 
be five thousand féet,~or-ene-thousand paces.” Thus, by 
the dropping of the balls;and the noise they make, we 
know every mile passed over; and each day one may 
ascertain, by the number of balls collected in the bottem;—_ 
the number of miles in the day’s journey. In navigation, 
with very little change in the machinery, the same thing 
may be done. An axis is fixed across the vessel, whose 
ends project beyond the sides, to which are attached 
wheels four feet-diameter, with paddles to them touch- 
ing the water. “Fhat part of the axis within the ves- 
sel has a wheel with a single tooth standing out beyond 
its face ; at which place a box is fixed with a wheel in- 
side it haying four hundred teeth, equal and correspond- 
ent to the tooth of the first wheel fixed on the axis. On 
the side of this, also, projecting from its face, is another 
tooth. Above, in another box, is enclosed another hori- 
zontal wheel, also toothed, to correspond with the tooth 
that is fastened to the side of the vertical wheel, and 
which, in every revolution, working in the teeth of the 
horizontal wheel, and striking one each time, causes it to 
turn round. In this horizontal wheel holes are made, 
wherein the round balls are placed ; and in the box of the 


A 


324 


wheel is a hole with a channel to it, through which the 
~ball descending without obstruction, falls into the brazen _ 
vase, and-makes it ring. Thus, when the vessel is on 
its way, whether impelled by oars or by the wind, the 
paddles of the wheels, driving back the water which 
comes against them with violence, cause the wheels to 
consequently with it “the. drum-wheel, whose onthe in 
every revolution, acts on the tooth in the second wheel, 
and produces moderate revolutions thereof. Wherefore, 
when the wheels are carried round by the paddles four 


___ hundred times,_the horizontal wheel will only have 
candle ane ev lane. by the striking of that tooth on the 


side of the vertical wheel, and thus, in the turning 
caused by the horizontal wheel every time it brings a 
ball to the hole it falls through the channel. In this 


AG age eto Seneca the number of miles navi- 


gated will be ascertained>~ It appears to me, that I have 
completed the description in such a manner that it will be 
easy to comprehend the structure of the machine, which 
will afford both utility and amusement in times of peace 
and safety. 


$25 


CHAPTER XV. 


OF CATAPULTZ AND SCORPIONS. 


I sHALL now proceed to an explanation of those instru- 
ments which have been invented for from danger, 
and .for the purposes of self-preservation ; I mean the 
ait rica hy ag ME sores a and their 
proportions. And first of catapultee and scorpions. Their 
proportions depend on the length of the arrow which the 
instrument is to throw, a ninth part of whose length is_ 
assigned for the sizes of the holés in the capitals through 
which the cords are stretched, that retain the arms of 
the catapulte. The height and width of the holes in the 
capital are thus fashioned. The plates (tabulae) which are 
at the top and bottom of the capital, and which are called 
parallels (paralleli) are equal in thickness to one hole, in 
width to one and three quarters, and at their extremities 
to one hole and a half. The side posts (parastate) right 
and left, exclusive of ooh tenons four holes high and—five 
hole 6 the middle pa post also three quarters o of a hole, the 
width of the middle post one hole and a quarter, its thick- 
ness one hole. The space wherein the arrow is placed in 
the middle of the post, the fourth part of a hole. The 
four angle pieces which appear on the sides and front, 
are strengthened with iron hoops fastened with copper 
or iron nails. The length of the channel which is called 
orgié in Greek, is nineteen holes. That of the slips 
(regula) which lie on the right and left of the channel, 

and which some persons call buccule, is also nineteen 


/ 


326 


holes, their height and width half a hole, Two other 
slips are fixed for ‘attaching the windlass, three holes long 
and half a hole wide. The thickness of a slip is called 
camillum, or according to others the dove-tailed box, and 
is of the dimension of one hole, its height half a hole. 
The length of the windlass is eight holes and an eighth. 
The roller nine holes wide. The length of the epitoxis 
is three. quarters’ of-a-hole, and its thickness one quarter. 
The chelo or manucla is three holes long, its length and 
thickness three quarters of a hole. The length of the 
bottom of the channel sixteen holes, its width and thick- 
ness each three quarters of a hole. The small column 
(columella) with its base near the ground eight holes, the 
breadth of the plinth in which the small column is fixed 
three quarters of a hole, its thickness three twelfths. 
The length of the small column up to the tenon twelve 
holes ; three quarters of a hole wide, and five-sixths of a 
hole thick. The three braces are nine holes long, half a 
hole wide, and a sixth of a hole thick; the length of the 
tenon one hole. The length of the head of the small co- 
lumn is one hole and three quarters. The width of the 
fore-piece (antefixa) is three eighths of a hole, its thick- 
ness one hole. The smaller back column, which in Greek 
is called avriBuorc, is eight holes long, one hole and a 
half wide, and three twelfths of a hole thick. The base 
(subjectio) is twelve holes, and its breadth and thickness 
the same as that of the smaller column. The chelonium 
or pillow as it is called, over the smaller column, two 
holes and a half; also two holes and a half high, and 
one hole and three quarters wide. ‘The mortices (car- 
chesia) in the axles are two holes and a half; their thick- 
ness also two holes and a half, and their width one hole 


9 


327 


and a half. The length of the transverse pieces with the 
tenons is ten holes, their width one hole and a half, their 
thickness ten holes. The length of the arm is seven 
holes, its thickness at bottom three twelfths, and at top 
halfa hole. The curve part eight holes. All these pro- 


oe comma Shae some, however, add to them, 
and some diminis em ; for if the capitals are higher 


than the width, in which case they are called anatona, the 
arms are shortened : so that the tone being weakened by 
the height of the capital, the shortness of the arm may 
make the stroke more powerful. If the height of the 
Owe 
capital be less, in which case it is called catatonum, the 
arms must be longer, that they may be the more easily 
drawn to, on account of the greater purchase ; for as a 
lever four feet long raises a weight by the assistance of 
four men, if it be eight feet long, two men will raise 
the weight; in like manner arms that are longer are 


more easily drawn-te-than those that are shorter. 








$28 


CHAPTER XVI. 
OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE BALISTA. 


I wave explained the structure of catapulte, their parts 
and proportions. The constructions of balistee are va- 
rious and different, though contrived to produce simi- 
lar effects. Some of these are worked by windlasses, 
stars terete pillow deter by caine and 
others by wheels: no balista, however, is made without 
regard to the weight of the stones it is intended to throw. 
Hence the rules will only be understood by those who are . = ' 
acquainted with arithmetical-numbers and their_powers. \ \ 
For instance, holes are made in the capitals, and through 
them are brought the cords, made either_of woman’ 
f_ gut, which are proportioned to the weight of the 
stone that the balista is to throw, as in the catapulte 
the proportions are derived from the length of the arrow. 
But that those who are nof masters of geometry andenit \ 
metic, may be prepared against delay on the occasions o V 
war, I shall here state the results of my own experience 
as well as what I havetearnt from masters, and shall ex- 


plain them, by reducing the Greek measures to their cor- 
respondent terms in our own. 


329 


CHAPTER XVII. 
OF THE PROPORTIONS OF THE BALISTA. 


A BaLista capable of throwing a stone of two pounds 


should have the hole (foramen) in the capital five digits. 


wide ; for a stone of four pounds, six digits ; for a stone of 
six pounds, seven digits ; for a stone of ten pounds, eight 
digits; for a stone of twenty pounds, ten digits; for a stone 
of forty pounds, twelve digits and nine sixteenths; for a 
stone of sixty pounds, thirteen digits and one eighth; for 
one of eighty pounds, fifteen digits; for one of one hundred 
and twenty pounds, one foot and a half and a digit and a 
half; for one of a hundred and sixty pounds, two feet; for 
one of a hundred and eighty pounds, two feet and five 
digits; for one of two hundred pounds, two feet and six 
digits ; for one of two hundred and ten pounds, two feet 
and seven digits: and lastly, for one of two hundred and 
fifty pounds, eleven feet and a half. Having thus deter- 
mined the size of the hole, which in Greek is called xegé- 
renros, a sight hole (scutula) is described two holes and a 
quarter in length, and two holes and one sixth wide. Let 
the line described be bisected, and when so_bisected, let 
the figure be obliquely turned till its length be ‘equal to 
one sixth part, and its width on which it turns that of the 
fourth part ofa hole. In the part where the curvature is, 
_ at which the points of the angles project, and the holes 
are turned, the contractions of the breadth return in- 
wardly, asixth part. The hole must be as much longer 
as the epizygis is thick. When it has been described, the 
extremity is to be so divided that it may have a gentle 
UU 


ey 


330 


curvature. Its thickness must be nine sixteenths of a hole. 
The stocks are made equal to two holes and a quarter, the 
width to one hole and three quarters, the thickness, ex- 
clusive of that part which is inserted into the hole, one 
hole and a half; the width at the extremity, one hole and 
a sixteenth; the length of the side posts, five holes and 
nine sixteenths; the curvature one half of a hole, the 
thickness four ninths ; in the middle the breadth is in- 
creased as it was near the hole above described; its 
breadth and thickness are each five holes; its height one 
quarter of a hole. ‘The length of the slip on the table is 
eight holes, and it is to be half a hole wide and thick. The 
length of the tenon two holes and a sixth, and its thick- 
ness one hole: the curvature of the slip is to be one six- 
teenth and five quarters of a sixteenth ; the breadth and 
thickness of the exterior slip the same; its length will be 
found by the turning, and the width of the side post and 
its curvature one sixteenth: the upper are equal to the 
lower slips, that is one sixteenth: the transverse pieces of 
the table two thirds and one sixteenth of a hole: the 
length of shaft of the small ladder (climacis) thirteen 
holes, its thickness three sixteenths: the breadth of the 
middle interval is a quarter of a hole, its thickness five 
thirty-seconds of a hole: the length of the upper part of 
the climacis near the arms, where it is joined to the table, 
is to be divided into five parts; of these, two are given 
to that part which the Greeks call yzAcs (the chest), the 
width one sixteenth, the thickness one quarter, the 
length three holes and an eighth, the projecting part of 
the chest half a hole. The pteregoma (or wing), one 
twelfth of a hole and one sicilicus. The large axis, which 
is called the cross front, is three holes ; the width of the 


331 


interior slips, one sixteenth of a hole; its thickness five 
forty-eighths of a hole: the cheek of the chest serves to 
cover the dove-tail, and is a quarter of a hole: the shaft 
of the climacis five sixths of a hole and twelve holes and a 
quarter thick: the thickness of the square piece which 
reaches to the climacis is five twelfths, at its ends one six- 
teenth: the diameter of the round axis must be equal to 
the chélos, but near its turning points three sixteenths © 
less. The length of the spur is one twelfth and three 
quarters ; its width at bottom one sixteenth, and its 
width at top a quarter and one sixteenth. The base, 
which is called éexagu, is a ninth of a hole long; the 
piece in front of the base (antibasis) four holes and one 
ninth; the width and thickness of each are to be the ninth 
of ahole. The half column is a quarter of a hole high, 
and its width and thickness half a hole; as to its height, 
that need not be proportioned to the hole, but made, how- 
ever, of such size as may be fit for the purpose. Of the 
arm the length will be six holes, its thickness at bottom 


half a hole; at the bottom one twelfth of a hole. I ee 


now given those proportions of the catapulta and balistee, 
which I consider most useful; I-shall not, however, omit 
to describe, as as I can by writing, the manner of 
preparing them with cords twisted « of guts and hair. — 


332 


CHAPTER XVIII. 


OF THE PREPARATION OF THE BALISTH AND 
CATAPULTE. 


Beams of considerable length must be procured, upon 
’ which are fixed cheeks in which the axles are retained; 
in the middle of those beams holes are made, into which are 
received the capitals of the catapultz, well tightened with 
wedges, so that the strain will not move them. Then 
brazen stocks are fixed for the reception of the capitals, 
in which are the small iron pins which the Greeks call 
émsoyidec. The ends of the ropes pass through the holes 
of the capitals, and brought through on the other side, 
they are then passed round the axle of the windlass, which 
is turned by the aid of levers, till the ropes, both drawn 
tight, give the same tone when struck by the hand. Then 
they are confined at the holes with wedges, to prevent 


their slipping. Being passed through to the other side, 
They dare ra Se similar way tightened by the levers and 

axles till the tones are similar. Thus by the use of the 
~_ wedges, catapult are adjusted, according to the effect 


of musical toneson the ear, 


838 


CHAPTER XIX. 


OF MACHINES FOR ATTACK. 


I Ave said as much as I could on these matters; it now 
remains for me to treat of those things relating to attacks, 
namely, of ide oo rmopmeemg generals take — 
a efend cities e first engine for attack was the 
ose origin is said to have been as follows. The 
Car rthaginians encamped in order to besiege Cadiz, and 
having first got possession of one of the towers, they en- 
deavoured to demolish it, but having no machines fit for 
the purpose, they took a beam, and suspending it in their 
hands, repeatedly battered the top of the wall with the 
end of it, and having first thrown down the upper courses, 
by degrees they destroyed the whole fortress. After that, 
a certain workman of Tyre, of the name of Pephasmenos, 
turning his attention to the subject, fixed up a pole and 
suspended a cross piece therefrom after the method of a 
steelyard, and thus swinging it backwards and forwards, 
levelled with heavy blows the walls of Cadiz. Cetras the 
Chalcedonian, was the first who added a base to it of tim- 
ber moveable on wheels, : and covered it with a roof on up- - 
___right-and cross pieces: on this hé “suspended the ram, co- 
vering it with bulls* hides, so that those who were employed 
therein in battering the walls might be secure from—dan- 
ger. And inasmuch as the machine moved but slowly, 
they called it the tortoise of the ram. Such was the 
origin of this species of machines. But afterwards, 
when Philip, the son of Amintas, besieged Byzantium, 
Polydus the Thessalian used it in many and simple forms, 
Pte Oe Spear eee ere 







334: 


——, 
\ 


s and by him were instructed Diades and Chereas, who— ce “) 





4 fought under Alexander. Diades has shewn in his | writ 
: ings that he was the inventor of ¢ > which 
he caused. to_ _be car carried from on 0 another by 


Se 


tion in n writing. “He jas that no tower should be built 
less than sixty.cubits high, nor than seventeen wide, and 
that its diminution at top should be one fifth of the width 
of the base: that the upright pieces of the tower should 
_-be one-foot. and three quarters at bottom, and half a foot 
at top: that it should contain ten floors, with-windows on 
___ each side. That the greatest tower that is constructed may 
— be one hundred and twenty cubits high, and twenty-three 
and a half wide, diminishing at the top one fifth of its 
base ; the upright piece one foot at bottom, and half a 
foot at top. The large tower is made with twenty floors, 
and to each floor there is a parapet of. three cubits, co- 
vered with raw hides to protect it from the arrows. The 
construction of the tortoise ram is similar: it was thirty 
cubits wide, and, exclusive of the roof, sixteen high. The 
height of the roof from the eaves to the ridge, seven cu- 
bits. On the top thereof in the centre rose a small tower, 
not less than twelve cubits wide : it-was raised with four 
__ stories, on the upper of which the scorpions and catapul- 
tae-were placed, and i in those below was kept a large store 
of water, to extinguish the flames in case it should be 
—fired:—-In-it was placed the machine for the ram, which 
the Greeks call xgsodoxm, wherein was the round smooth 
roller on which the ram worked backwards and forwards 


335 


by means of ropes, and produced great effect. This, 
like the tower, was covered with raw hides. He de- M 
scribes the auger (terebra) thus: the machine is made __ 
like a tortoise, as in those for the reception of the cata- 
pultee and balistaz, and in the middle thereof is a chan- 
nel on the pilasters fifty cubits long, one high, and across 
it an axle. In front, on the right and left, are two pul- 
leys, by means of which is moved a beam with an iron 
point at its end, which works in the channel. Under the 
channel are rollers, which give it an easier and stronger 
motion. Above the beam an arch is turned to cover the 
channel, and receive the raw hides with which the ma- 
chine is covered. I do not describe the grappling ma- 
chine, because I consider it of very little use. I perceive 
that he only promises to explain, which however he does 
not do, the construction of the ladder called érPabeu 
by the Greeks, and the other marine machines for 
boarding ships. Having described the construction of 
the machines as Diades directs, I shall now explain it in 
a way that I think will be useful, and as taught me by 
my masters. 


836 


CHAPTER XxX. 


OF THE TORTOISE FOR FILLING DITCHES. 


Tue tortoise contrived for filling up ditches, which also 
affords an access to the walls, is thus made. <A base, 
called by the Greeks teyaeu, is prepared twenty-five 
feet square, with four cross pieces. These are tied 
in by two other pieces, one twelfth high, and\one half 
wide, distant from each other about a foot and a half, 
and under each of their intervals are placed the naves 
of wheels, called in Greek a&makorodes, within which 
the axles of the wheels turn in iron hoops. The naves 
are so made that they have holes in their heads, in which 
the handspikes being received, are made to turn them. 
The naves thus revolving, it may be. moved forward 
or backward, to the right or left, or diagonally, as 
wanted. Above the base are placed two beams, pro- 
jecting six feet on each side; round the projections of 
which two other beams are fixed in front, seven feet 
long, and their width and thickness as described for 
the base. Upon this frame which is to be morticed, posts 
are placed, nine feet high, exclusive of their tenons, 
one foot and a palm square, and a foot and a half dis- 
tant from each other. These are tied in at top by means 
of morticed beams. Above these beams are braces, with 
tenons, the end of one being let into the next to the 
height of nine feet, and over the braces is a square piece 
of timber, by which they are connected. They also are 
kept together by side pieces, and are covered with planks 
of palm, in preference to other wood: if those are not to 


$37 


be procured, by other wood of a strong nature, pine and 
ash, however, excepted ; for they are weak and easily ig- 
nited. About the planking are placed gratings, made of 
slender twigs recently cut, and closely interwoven; and 
then the whole machine is covered with raw hides, as 
fresh as can be procured, doubled and stuffed with sea- 
weed or straw steeped in vinegar, in order that it may re- 
sist the strokes of the balistee and the attacks of fire. 


eae ST a ct eee oe 


en 


338 


CHAPTER XXI. 
OF OTHER SORTS OF TORTOISES. 


Tuerz is another species of tortoise, which is just the same 
as that above described, except in respect of the braces. 
This. has a parapet and battlements of boarding, and 
above, an inclined pent-house round it, tied in at top with 
planks and hides firmly fastened. Over these is a layer 
of clay with hair, of such thickness as to prevent the 
machine taking fire. ‘These machines may be made with 
eight wheels, if need be, and if the nature of the place 
require it. The tortoises made for undermining, called 
by the Greeks oguyes, are similar to those already de- 
scribed; but their fronts are formed on a triangular 
plan, so that the weapons from the wall may not fall di- 
rect on the faces, but gliding off from them, the exca- 
vators within may be secure from danger. It does 
not appear to me foreign to our purpose to explain the 
proportions and constructions of the tortoise made by 
Agetor the Byzantine. Its base was sixty feet long, its 
width eighteen. The upright pieces which rose above 
the framing, were four in number; they were in two 
lengths, joined, each thirty-six feet high, one foot and 
one palm in thickness, and in width one foot and a half. 
The base had eight wheels, on which it was moved ; their 
height was six feet and three quarters, their thickness 
three feet, composed of three pieces of wood dove-tailed 
together, and tied with plates of cold wrought iron. 
These turned on naves, or hamaxopodes, as they are 
called. Above the surface of the cross pieces which 


339 


’ 


were on the base, upright posts were erected, eighteen 
feet and a quarter high, three quarters wide, and three- 
twelfths thick, and one and three quarters apart. Above 
them were beams all round, which tied the machine to- 
gether, they were one foot and a quarter wide, and three 
quarters thick. Over these the braces were placed, and 
were twelve feet high. Above the braces was a beam 
which united the framing. They had also side pieces 
fixed transversely, on which a floor, running round them, 
covered the parts below. ‘There was also a middle floor 
above the small beams, where the scorpions and ca- 
tapultae were placed. Two upright pieces were also 
raised, joined together, thirty-five feet long, a foot and-a 
half thick, and two feet wide, united at their heads, dove- 
tailed into a cross beam, and by another in the middle, 
morticed between two shafts and tied with iron hooping, 
above which were alternate beams between the uprights 
and the cross piece, firmly held in by the cheeks and 
angle pieces. Into the framing were fixed two round 
and smooth axles, to which were fastened the ropes 
that held the ram. Over the heads of those who worked 
___ the ram was a pent-house, formed after the manner of 
a turret, where two soldiers could stand secure from 
danger, and give directions for annoying the enemy. — 
.The ram was one hundred and six feet long, a foot and a 
palm wide at the butt, a foot thick, tapering towards the 
head to a foot in width, and five-eighths in thickness. 
It was furnished with a hard iron beak like those 
fixed on galleys, from which went out-four-iren prongs 
about fifteen feet long, to fix it to the beam. More- 
over, distributed between the foot and the head of the 
beam, four stout ropes were stretched eight inches 


————___ gl 


$40 

thick, made fast like those which retain the mast of a 
ship between the poop and the prow. To these were 
shing others diagonally, which suspended the ram at the 
distance of a palm and a foot from each other. The 
whole of the ram was covered with raw hides. At the 
furtber end of the ropes, towards the head, were four iron 
chains, also covered with raw hides, and it had a projec- 
tion from each floor, framed with much skill, which was 
kept in its place by means of large stretched ropes, the 
roughness of which preventing the feet from slipping, 
made it easy to get thence on to the wall. ‘The machine 
could be moved-in six directions, straight forward, to the 
right and left, and from its extent it could be used on the 
_ascending and descending slope ofa hill. It could, more- 
over, be so raised as to throw down a wall one hundred 
feet in height: so, also, when moved to the right and 
left, it reached not less than one hundred feet. It was 
worked by one hundred men, and its weight was four 
thousand talents, or-four hundred and eighty thousand 
pounds. 


841 


CHAPTER XXII. 


OF MACHINES FOR DEFENCE. 


I nave explained what I thought most requisite respect- 
ing scorpions, catapulte, baliste, no less than tortoises 
~—~and towers, who inventeé ‘hem, and in in what manner 
they ought to be made. It did not seem necessary to 
write on ladders, cranes, and other things of simpler 
construction; these the soldiers _of themselves _ easily — 
make. Neither are they, useful in all places, nor of the 
same proportions, inasmuch as the defences and fortifi- 
cations of different cities are not similar: for machines 
constructed to assault the bold and impetuous, should 
be differently contrived to those for attacking the crafty, 
and still dissimilar, where the parties are timid. Whoever, 
therefore, attends to these precepts, will be able to select 
from the variety mentioned, and design safely, without 
further aid, such new schemes as the nature of the places 
and other circumstances may require. For the defence 


NN 


of a place or army, one cannot give precepts in writing, _ 
since e the machines which the nr prepares msy not 
their contrivances are foiled by some ready ingenious 
plan, without the assistance of machines, as was the 
case with the Rhodians. Diognetus was a Rhodian 
architect, who, to his honour, on account of his great 
skill, had an annual fixed salary. At that period, an 
architect of Aradus, whose name was Callias, came to 
Rhodes, obtained an audience, and exhibited a model of 


a wall, whereon was a revolving crane, by means whereof 





sean y \ 


Ww 


wie 


¥ 


342 


he could suspend an Helepolis near the spot, and swing it 
within the walls. The wondering Rhodians, when they 
saw it, took away the salary from Diognetus, and con- 
ferred it on Callias. Immediately after this, king Deme- 
trius, who, from his resolution, was sirnamed Poliorcetes, 
prepared to wage war against the Rhodians, and brought 
in his train Epimachus, a celebrated architect of Athens. 
This person prepared an helepolis of prodigious expense ~ 
and of ingenious and laborious construction, whose height 
was one hundred and twenty-five feet, and its width sixty 
feet: he secured it, moreover, with hair-cloths and raw 
hides, so that it might securely withstand the shock of a 
stone of three hundred and sixty pounds weight, thrown 
from a balista. The whole machine weighed three hun- 
dred and sixty thousand pounds. Callias being now re- 
quested by the Rhodians to prepare his machine against 
the helepolis, and to swing it within the wall, as he had pro- 


//|_ mised, confessed_he was unable. For the same principles 


do not-answer itrall_cases. In some machines the prin- 
‘ciples are of equal effect on a-large and on a small scale ; 
others cannot be judged of by models. Some there are 
whose effects in modé em to approach the truth, but 
vanish when executed on a larger scale, as we have 
just seen. With an auger, a hole of half an inch, of an 
inch, or even an inch and a half, may be easily bored; 
but by the same instrument it would be impossible to 
bore one of a palm in diameter; and no one would think 
of attempting in this way to bore one of half a foot, or 
larger. Thus that which may be effected on a small or 
a moderately large scale, cannot be executed beyond cer- 
tain limits of size. When the Rhodians perceived their 
error, and how shamefully they had wronged Diognetus ; 


ree eae | 


343 


when, also, they perceived the enemy was determined to 
invest them, and the machine approaching to assault the 
city, fearing the miseries of slavery and the sacking of 
the city, they humbled themselves before Diognetus, and 
requested his aid in behalf of his country. He at first 
refused to listen to their entreaties ; but when afterwards 
the comely virgins and _youths, accompanied by the 


Dk ce oop eel et 

~ that i ceeded in taking the machine, it should be 

Bi pa oan ag rag ea ordered a 

eee that part of the wall opposite to the 
machine, and gave general as well as particular notices 
to the inhabitants, to throw on the other side of the hole, 
through channels made for the purpose, all the water, 
filth, and mud, that could be procured. ‘These being, 
during the night, discharged through the hole in great 
abundance, on the following day, when the helepolis was 
advanced towards the-wall, it sunk in the quagmire thus. 

~ created: and Demetrius, finding himself overreached by 
the sagacity of Diognetus, drew off his army. ‘The Rho- 
~dians, freed from war by the ingenuity of Diognetus, 
gave him thanks publicly, and loaded him with honours 
and ornaments of distinction. Diognetus afterwards re- 
moved the helepolis within the walls, placed it ina pub- , 
lic situation, and inscribed it thus: ** DioGNETUS PRE- 
SENTED THIS TO THE PEOPLE OUT OF THE SPOILS OF WAR.” \\ 
Hence, in defensive operations, ingemsity is. of-more | \\I| 
avail. machines. A similar circumstance occurred 
Sr Chica, Where the enemy had got ready sambucz on 

board their ships; the Chians, during the night, threw 

into the sea, at the foot of their wall, earth, sand, and 

stones; so that when the enemy, on the following day, 


344: 


endeavoured to approach it, the ships got aground on 


_.._the heaps thus created under water, without being able 


_to approach the wall or _to_recede ; in which situation 
they were assailed with lighted missiles, and burnt. 
When, also, the city of Apollonia was besieged, and the 
enemy was in hopes, by undermining, to penetrate into 
the fortress unperceived; the spies communicated this 
intelligence to the Apollonians, who-were dismayed, and, 
through fear, knew not how to act, because they were 
not aware at what time, nor in what precise spot, the 


vations within the wall, , and, spay: oe advanced 
an arrow’s flight beyond the walls. In these excavations 
he suspended brazen vessels. In one of them, near the 
place where the enemy was forming his mine, the brazen 
vessels began to ring, from the blows of the mining tools 
which were working. From this he found the direction in 
which they were endeavouring to penetrate, and then pre- 
pared vessels of boiling water and pitch, human dung, and 
heated sand, for the purpose of pouring on their heads. 
In the night he bored a great many holes, through which 
he suddenly poured the mixture, and destroyed those of 
the enemy that were engaged in this operation. Similarly 
when Marseilles was besieged, and the enemy had made 
more than thirty mines; the Marseillois suspecting it, 
lowered the depth of the ditch which encompassed the 
wall, so that the apertures of all the mines were disco- 
vered. In those places, however, where there is not a 
ditch, they excavate a large space within the walls, of 
great length and breadth, opposite to the direction of 
the mine, which they fill with water from wells and from 


345 


the sea; so that when the mouths of the mine open to 
the city, the water rushes in with great violence, and 
throws down the struts, overwhelming all those within it 
with the quantity of water introduced, and the falling 
in of the mine. When a rampart composed of the 
trunks of trees is raised opposite to a wall, it may be con- 
sumed by discharging red hot iron bars against it from 
the balistae. When, also, a tortoise is brought up to bat- 
ter a wall with a ram, a rope with a noose in it may be 
lowered to lay hold of the ram, which being then raised 
by means of a wheel and axle above, keeps the head sus- 


~- pended; so-that it cannot be worked-against the wall : 


lastly, with burning arrows, and with discharges from the 
balistae, the whole machine may be destroyed. Thus all 
these cities are saved and preserve their freedom, not_by 
machines, but by expedients which are suggested through 
the ready ingenuity of their architects. I have, in this 
book, to the best of my ability, described the construc- 
tion of those machines most—useful in peace and_war. 
In the preceding nine “T treated of the other branches 
of Architecture, so that the whole subject is contained 
in ten books, 


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PLATES 


ILLUSTRATIVE OF 


THE ARCHITECTURE 


or 


MARCUS VITRUVIUS POLLIO. 


JOSEPH GWILT. 





PLATE I. 


350 


PLATE I. 


Fig. 1. Isa diagram of the winds, as enumerated in 
Chap. III: Book I. 

2 and 3. Are representations of the antient bricks, 
whereof Fig. 2. is that of the pentadoron and 
its half brick, and Fig. 3. that of the tetrado- 
ron and its half brick. See Chap. III. Book 
ik 

4. Represents the different sorts of brick and stone 
walling, mentioned by the author in the third 
and eighth Chapters of the second Book. 

The reticulated work (reticulatum opus). 
The uncertain (incertum opus). 

The work called isodomum. 

. The work called pseudisodomum. 

The work called ¢uxAexrov (emplectum). 
The d:aroves or bond stones. 


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352 


_ PLATE II. 


Fig. 1. The plan of a city, so set out as to afford 

shelter from the noxious winds. See Chap. 
VI. Book I. 

2'and 3. Plan and elevation ofa part of the walls. 
See Chap. V. Book I., and Chap? II. Book 
VI. a fae 

4. Method of determining the meridian line. See 
Chap. VI. Book I. 















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Published by Presticy k Woeale, High Street. Bloomsbury. 








PLATE III. 











Fig. 1. 


Fig. 2. 


Fig. 3. 


» A. is the cell. 


354 


PLATE. III. 


Is the plan of a Temple in antis. aa are the 
ante. If in front of them, the columns b b b b 
be placed, it then becomes a prostyle tem- 
ple. 


B. the pronaos. = 

C. the door, ce 
See Chapters. L: dna Book ait: 

Represents the. plan of ¢ an amphiprostyle Tem- 
ple, or. one paving ve columns in the rear as 
well as in the front. 

A. the cell. 

B. the pronaos. 

C. the posticus. 

D. the door. 

aa, ante. 

See Chapters I. and II. Book III. 

The elevation of a diastyle tetrastylos ‘Temple : 
that is, having intercolumniations of three 
diameters, with four columns in front. See 
Chapters I. and II. Book III. This elevation 
will answer to the plans above described, ob- 
serving, however, that antae must be substi- 
tuted for the external columns, to make it 
correspond with the plan of Fig. 1 

See Chapters I. and II. Book III. 


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PLATE IV. 


Fig. 1. 


Fig. 2. 


356 


me 


Se 


Is the plan of a pseudoperipteral Temple, as 
described in Chapter VII. Book IV. 

A. the cell. 

B. the pronaos. 

Is the elevation of an hexastyle Temple with 
a systyle intercolumniation, and monotry- 
glyphal, that is having only one triglyph in 
the frieze over an intercolumniation. This 
will suit the plan exhibited in Fig. 1. 

See Chapter III. Book IV. 








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Fig..1. The plan of a peripteral temple. The wings, or 
passages C. between the walls of the cells and 
. the columns in flank, are the origin of the 
mame it bears. This temple is hexastyle, or 
with six columnsin front, having. eustyle inter- 
columniations, that is of two diameters and a 

quarter. 


A. the cell. 
B. the pronaos. 


2, Elevation to double size of the plan above de- 
scribed, of the Ionic order. 
aaa acroteria. 
See Chapters I. II. and III., Book III. 

















Published by Prestley & Weade, High Street. Blooms bury 








PLATE VI. 


360 


PLATE VI. 


Fig. 1. Is the plan of a dipteral temple, so called from 
the double passages between the columns on 
the flanks lettered AAAA. See Chap. I. and 
II., Book ITI. 


2. Plan of a pseudodipteral or false dipteral temple. 
This presents in front and rear the appear- 
ance of a dipteral temple, but the passages 
AAAA of the former figure are herein re- 
duced to a single passage B, one range of 
columns being omitted. See Chapters I. and 
If., Book III. 


8. Is an elevation which answers to either of the 
abovementioned plans: the arrangement of 
the intercolumniations is systyle and the 
number of columns makes it octastylos. See 
Chapters I. and II., Book III. 











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Fig. 1. 


362 


PLATE VII. 


Is the plan of an hypethral or open temple; 
the part A is the hypethral, or uncovered 
part. . 

Is half of an elevation answering to the above- 
mentioned plan. The arrangement of the 
intercolumniations is picnostyle, and the 


number (ten) of the columns makes it 
decastylos. 


Is a half section of the temple through the 
centre transversely. 


See Chapters I. and II., Book IIT. 








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Fig. 1. 





PLATE VIII. 


Fig. 1. 


Fig. 2. 


Fig. 3. 


Fig. 4. 


364 


PLATE VIII. 


The Doric Order. Chapter III. Book IV. 
A.A. The Column, with twenty flutes. 
The Capital. 
The Architrave, or Epistylium. 
. The Frieze. 
The Cornice. 
A Metopa. 
. A Triglyph. 
. Capital of a Triglyph. 
The Ionic Order. Chapter III. Book III. 
A.A. The Column. 
B. The Base. 
. The Capital. 
. The Architrave. 


c 
D 
E. The Frieze. 
F. 
G 


marr UaAn 


The Cornice. 

. Lower Fascia. 
H. Middle Fascia. 
I. Upper Fascia. 
K. Side elevation of Capital. 
L.L. Dentels. 
M. Capital to a larger scale. 
Corinthian Order. Chapter I. Book IV. 
The plan of the Corinthian Capital. 
The Elevation of the same. 


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PLATE IX. 


366 


PLATE IX. 


Fig. 1. and 2. Exhibit the parts of a Roof in. section 
and elevation as described in Chapter II. 
Book IV. 
aa. Beams (Trabes). 
b b. Ridge piece (Columen). 
c. King post (Columna). 
ddd. Tye beam (Transtrum). 
e. Strut (Capreolus). 
ff. Rafters (Cantherii). 
g ggg. Purlines (Templa). 
hh. Common Rafters (Asseres). 
The above letters refer to both Figures 1. a 
2. On the right hand part of the latter Fi- 
gure the tiles are shewn. 
Fig. 3. and 4. Are Doors with their ornaments (Ante- 
pagmenta). Chapter VI. Book IV. 
Fig. 5. The Tuscan Order. See Chapter VII. Book 
iV. 


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PLATE X. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


Fig. 


a, 


368 


PLATE X. ” 


Is a plan of a Tuscan Temple. Chapter VII. 
Book IV. . The side A shews it in antis, the 
side B shews it prostylos. 

C. is the larger, and DD. the smaller cells. 

Represents the elevation of the preceding Fi- 
gure. The arrangement of the intercolumnia- 
tions is Areostylos. 

Is a plan of a Monopteral Temple, see Chapter 
VII. Book IV. 

An elevation of the preceding Figure. 

A. The Stylobata or Pedestal. — 

B. The Flower (Flos). 

C. The Dome (Tholus). 

Plan of half a Peripteral round temple. 

A. The Cell. : 

An elevation of the preceding Figure. 

B. The Stylobata. 

C. The Tholus. 

D. The Flower. 


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INDEX. 


A. 


Asacus, Page 102. 118. 91. 

ABATON, 62. 

ABDERITEs, 212. 

ABUTMENTS, 188. 

Acantuus, in the Corinthian capital, 102. 
Acctus the poet, 266. 

Acuara, 51. 100. 

AKPOBATIKOX, 296. 

Acips, wonderful nature of, 244, et seq. 
Acroreria, 94.—Represented, 358. 
‘Actors, comic and tragic, 145. 
ApJusTMENT, 78. 

Apriatic Sea, 51. 69, 70. 

Aourriie, 24. 

aut, in Italy, 245. 

fEscuytus, 195. 

AEscutarius, 13. 195. 

Ai tutors of the south, 236.—Lake of Athiopia, 241. 
fitna, 51. 56. 

Arnica, prolific of wild beasts, 247.—African plains, 236. 
Arricus, 25. 

AcaTHarcuHus, 195. 

AGEsIsTRATUs, 196. 

AceEtor, of Byzantium, 338. 

AISLES, or wings, of courts, 174. 
ALABANDINES, 212. 

ALBANS, stone quarries of, 53, 

ALBULA, river, 238. 


370 INDEX. 


ALvER, 231. 

ALEXANDER, 33, et seq. 192. 244. 334. 

ALEXANDRIA, 35. 192. 194, 222. 268. 284. 

AxExis, the comedian, 162. 

Aurs, 69. 72. 236. 244. et seq. 

Autanus, 27. 

Aurars of the Gods, how to be placed, 114. 122. 

Autinum, 20. 

AMALGAMATION, 217, 218. 

‘AMASOTIOAES, 336. 

AMITERNINE stone quarries, 53. 

Ammon, 240. 

AmputrrostyLos, 81.—Plan of an amphiprostyle temple, 354. 

"AM@IPETSIX, a machine, 302. 

AMPHITHEATRE, 31. 

Amruyore# (cullearia), 182. 

Anatemma, 268; on the construction of dials by the, 284; form- 
ation of the, 287. 

ANAPORICUM, a winter dial, 289. . 

ANATONA, capitals, 327. 

Anaxacoras CLAzoMENIUs, 192. 195. 276. 227. 283. 

Ancona, 70. 

AwnconEs (trusses), or prothyrides, 116. 

Anprias, 287. 

AnpDRONES, 185. 

ANDRONIcUS CYRRHESTES, 25. 

ANGLE-TILEs, 201. 

ANGLEs, 81; of a portico, 155. 

ANICIAN stone quarries, 54. 

ANISOCYCLON, an engine, 297. 

Ant in buildings, 81. 184. 187; represented, 354. 

*ANTHXOTNTES, places that resound, 146. 

ANTERIDES, counter-forts, 188. 

ANTHRAX, 217. 

AntTiBasis, 326. 331. 7 

ANTIBOREDS, a dial, 287. 


INDEX. 871 


ANTIMACHIDEs, an Athenian architect, 196. 

Antiocuus, king, 196. 

ANTIPATER, 244, 283, 

ANTISTATEsS, 196. 

ANTITHALAMus, 184. 

APOLLONIA, 241. 344. 

APOLLONIANS, 344, 

APOLLONIus, 9. 287. 

Aputia, 20. 

AQuEpucr, 252. 

AquiLeta, 20. 

AQuITAINE, 38. 

Araturivs of Alabanda, 211. et seq. 

APELLES, the painter, 8. 

APENNINE Mountains, 51.—Described, 72. 

Aro.to, colossal, of Ephesus, 306.—Of Delos, 265.—Of Delphi, 
100.—Games dedicated to Apollo and the Muses, by Ptole- 
my, at Alexandria, 192.—Temple of, at Miletus, 197. 

Apopuycis, a contraction of thickness, 119. 

AporueEsis, 102. 

Arata, Numidian, 241. 243. 

ARACHNE, a dial, 287. 

Arapus, 341. 

AnrosTyLos, 83. 86. 368. 

Aratus, 283. 

Arcapia, 244. 

ARCHED CHANNELS, 252. 

ArcuEs, 187. 

ArcHIMEDEs, 6. 9. 196. 265. 

ARCHITECTURE, defined, 3.—On what it depends, 11.—Of its dif- 
ferent branches, 15. 

ARCHITRAVE, 115. 143. 

Arcuytas, 9. 196. 265.—Ares or rods, iron (uncini ferrei), 153. 

ArpEA, fountains of, 238. 

Area, 24. 31. 56. 78. 88. 261. 

Area, of a city, disposition and situation of buildings within it, 24. 


3872 INDEX. 


Areopacus, 39. 

ArEvanias, 60. 

AreEzzo, 58. 

ARGELIUS, 195. 

Arcos, 60. 99. 246. 

Aricin1an Woop, 120. 

ARIOBARZANES, 148. 

Anristarcuus, of Samos, 8. 9. 274. 287. 
ARISTIDES, 248. 

Anistippus, the Socratic philosopher, 161. 
ARISTOMENES oF THasos, the painter, 76. 
ARISTOPHANES, the comic poet, 162.—The grammarian, 193. 
ARISTOTLE, 192. 260. 

ARISTOXENES, the musician, 8. 134. 139. 
Arms or Cataputts, 6. 825. 
ARRANGEMENT, 11.—In Doric proportions, 109. 
ArniseEs, of Fillets, 94. 

ARSENAL, 157. 195. 

Arsinog, 100. 

ArtemisiA, 61. et seq. 

Artemo, 303. 

ARTIsT, or workman, 189. 

Arts, relative to attacks, 333. 21. 
Ascent, 88. 119. 141. 

Asia, 44. 51. 

AspHautic Poor, 241. 

“AXTIAHNOY, herb, 19. 

AsTABORA, river, 236. 

ASTASOBA, river, ib. 

AstTracaL, 90. 116. 

AsTROLOGERS, 141. 283. 

Astronomy, 7. 

Atuos, Mount, 34. 

ATHENIANS, 100. 162. : 
AtueEns, 25. 39. 58. 82. 120. 148. 197. 215. 240. 268. 284. 
"ATAANTES, 186. 


INDEX. 3873 


ATLAs, 236. 

Atoms, 42. 

Artack, machines for, 333. 

Arratus, 100.—Attalic Kings, 58. 192. 
Artic, honey, 71; attic work, to artimoupyés, 90. 115. 117. 
AvcER (terebra), 334, 335. 

Avcustus, temple of, 128. 

M. Avretivs, 2. 

Avnrica, a celestial sign, 278. 

ATPIon, 28. 

AusTER, 25. 

AvuToMATA, 288. 

AVENTINE, Mount, 219. 

Axis, 104. 290. 303. 268. 165. 92. 306. 
Ax LE, 308. 

AxLEs, 297. 

Axon, 285. 


Bay on, walls of, 23. 241. 
Baccus, temples of, 13. 31. 84. 107. 148. 195. 
Bai, 50.—Baian Mountains, ib. 
Baveanric Isies, 215. 247. 

Ba ista, 328, 329. 332. 6. 

BANATZOX, a machine for draught, 296. 
Banos, of pillows, 91. 

Bankers’ shops, 126. et seq. 

Bars (fusi), 306. 

Bars and levers, 317. 

Base (lysis), 143. 

Base (subjectio), of the catapult, 326. 
Basrs, of columns, 88. 105. 
Basiica, 126. 

Basin, 231. 


374 INDEX. 


Basin (catinum), 317. 

Basts, base, 101. 306. 319. 336. 

Barus, their arrangement and parts, 152. 181. 

Bear, Great and Little, constellations, 279. 

Beams (trabes), 104; lintel beams, 174; well-wrought beams, 128. 
333. 336. 338; small beams, 339; see representation, 366. 

Beams (tigna), 104. 296. 299. 333. 338. 

Beater (bacillus), 47. 

Beaters, 200. 256. 

Beauty, in building, how produced, 15. 

Bep-cHaMBERs, 184. 

Bepas, of Byzantium, statuary, 76. 

Bens, of beams (columbaria), 103; of beams and rafters, 106. 113. 
56; of stones, 56. ; 

Brnosus, the Chaldean, 273. 282. 287. 

Bitumen, 23. 50. 241. 

Brack (atramentum), 221. 208. 

Brack, colour (coracinus), 243. 

Buock (trochlea), 299. 

Biocxs, of stone, 306. 

BuveE, colour, 222. 

Buve-£YED Prope, 166. 

Bopy, of the roof, 172. 

Beoria, 243. 

Bonp (coagmentum), 44. 56. 113. 188. 

BonpsTones, diatévor, 58; represented, 350. 

BorystHEenes, 235. 

Bossep nails (clavi muscarii), 206. 

Box, 319; small, 322; dove-tailed, 326; of the drum-wheel, 322. 

Bracers, capreoli, 326. 324. 

Braczs, in the tortoise, 336. 

Brass, Corinthian, 249. 

Brass Barrets, with moveable bottoms, 319. 

Brass Corn, 80. 

Brass Founpers, 54. 

BreEssuMMERs (trabes), 104. 


INDEX. 875 


Brick, eight inch (bessalis), 152. 

Brick, walls, 58; burnt-bricks in buildings, walls, &c. 63. 200. 

Bricks, 43; of baked earth, 241; representations of antient bricks, 
350. 

Bryaxes, 196. 

Buccu a, in catapults, 325. 

Buckets, 312. 317. 319. 

BurtpeErs, who the earliest, 40. - 

Buitprne, 15; origin and progress of, 37; of f walls, 21. 56. 88. 
178. 187; in water, 157. 

Burtpines: on their situation according to the nature of different 
places, 165; of the proportions of private buildings, to suit 
the nature of their sites, 170; aspects proper for the differ- 
ent sorts of buildings, 178; forms of houses suited to the 
different ranks of persons, ib.; proportions of houses in the 
country, 181; arrangement and parts of Grecian houses, 
184; on the strength of buildings, 187. 

Burrusn, 231. 

Burnt Brick, course of, on a wall, 63. 

Byzantium, 333. 


Capiz, 333. 

Cxcusan WINE, 242, 

Caius Juxivus, son of Masinissa, 247. 
Caius Murtius, 197. ; 

Ca pron, in baths, 152. 233. 

CarecueEs (cisia), 298 

CaLEentuM, 44. 

Catiascurvus, an Athenian architect, 196. 
Caxias, an architect of Rhodes, 341, et seq. 
CaLiimacuus, an architect named Catatechnos, 102. 
Cauirpus, an astrologer, 283. 

Camitium, 326. 

Camens, 238. 


376 INDEX. 


Campania, 52, et seq. 72. 242. 244. 

CaNnpDELABRA in houses, 211. : : 

Canon in hydraulics, xavav wovoinds, 319. 

Canorvs, constellation, 282. 

Carrrat, of a column, 91. 108; Corinthian, 101, et seq.; Tonic, 
99; in machines, 329. 14; Catatonum, 327. 

Cartrrot, 40. 84. 

Cappapocia, 241. - 

Carstan, 302. 

Carsuncutus, a kind of sand, 16. 52. 231. 

Caxcuesit, or tracheli, in the catapult, 326. 

CarpinaLEs scart, 116. 

Caria, 59, 60. 100. 

Carians, 59. 100. 

Carrion, 195. 

CartTuacr, 241. 

CarTHAGINIANS, 333. 

Carya, 4. 

CaryYATIDEs, ib. 

Casium, 241. 

Castor, temple of, 120. 

Caraputt, on the, 325. 328, 329. 332. 6. 

Cararacts of the Nile, 236. 

Catatonum, capital, 327. 

CaTuHeETI, vertical lines, Kaderos yeauun, 91. 

Caucasus, Mount, 235. 

Cavticoti (stalks), in capitals, 102. 211. 

Caurus, wind, 25. 

Causis, a mode of painting, 219. 

CavetTrTo, upper and lower, 90. 

CaviTi£s, in a theatre, 138. 

Ce1Lines, 202. 176. 

CELL, in temples, 81, et seq. 112, et seq. 118, et seq. 

Crap, wine, 16. 181; oil, ib. 

Cement, 14. 23. 46. 51. 56; of flint, 256; marble, 214. 

CentTRE, 195. 11. 79. 285. 308. 


INDEX. 377 


Cepuisus, river, 243. 

Ceres, temples of, 32. 84. 197. 

Crrostrara (doors inlaid), 117. 

Cerras, of Chalcedon, 333. 

Cuereas, 334. 

Cuaccipica, 127. 

CHALDEANs, 273. 282. 

Cuax, 220; Eretrian, ib. ; Selinusian, 225; green, 315. 

Cuampers (cubicula), 178. 13. 

CHannEL, orpié, 325. 99. 107. 201. 207. 253. 335; in Ionic co- 
lumns, 91; in the catapult, 326. 

CHANNELS (columbaria), 312. 

Cuaripas, 196. 

Cuarior-nopy, 322. 

Cuexk, of the chest, in the balista, 331. 

Cuerks (chelonia), 303. 308. 320. 

CHELO, or manucla, 326. 

CuEtontvm, or pillow, 326. 299, et seq. 303. 

XHAO®, in the balista, 330. 

CuEst, 319. 330. 

Cuion, a Corinthian statuary, 76. 

CuIonIpEs, the comic poet, 162. 

Cuios, 100. 194. 343; fountain of, 246. 

Currs, of marble (assule), 214. 

Cuorce, of salubrious places, 16; of places for the common use of 
the city, 31. 

Cuorosares, in levelling, 250. 

Cuorus, in theatres, 148. 

xpoma, 135. 

Curomaric modulation, 135, 136. 

Curysoco.tia, 213. 220. 

Cicero, 266. 

Ciusr1an Fields, of the Ephesians, 217. 

Ciricia, 240, et seq. 

Circrs,,'26. 


878 INDEX. 


Crrcuiar application of motion, xuxaimy xivnois, 296; circular walk, 
avaos, 155. 172. 21. 

CrircuMsTANce (statio, Ieuaticuds), adds to the beauty of a work, 
12; of the Greeks, 62. 

Circus, Flaminius, 120; Maximus, 84. 

Cistrern, 252. 

Ciry, choice of situation for a, 16; foundations of walls and 
towers, 21; distribution and situation of buildings within the 
walls, 24; choice of situations for public buildings, 31; 
plans relative to these subjects, 352. 

Ciazomens, 100; fields of the Clazomenians, 243. 

CiEomsnrotus, 5. 

CuiiapEs, 196. 

Curmacis in the balista, 331. 

CuimarteE, dial of Berosus adapted to, 287. 

Cxrrorivum, fountain of, 245. 

Cop, or mass, of lime, marble, &c. 202. 214. 216. 37. 

Cyn. Corne ius, 2. 

Coar in stucco, 204. 

Coarine, 203. 

Coats of Punic wax, 215; of lime or sand, 200. 

Ca ia, xoiria, in aqueducts, 254. 

Ca.us, temple of, 12. 

Cotcuis, 235; buildings of the Colchi, 38. 

Cotp Barn, lutrum, 155. 

Cotas, in water engines, 319. 

Cotta porta, 81. 

Cottiaut# (valleys), 172. 

Cook, marsh, 236. 

Cotony, Julian, of Fano, 127. 

Cotornon, 100. 

CotosstcorERos, Koaorcindtegos, 93. 302. 

Cotossus of Halicarnassus, 59. 

Coxours, in stucco, 205; natural, 215; vermilion and quicksilver, 
217; preparation of vermilion, 219; artificial, 221; black, 


INDEX. 879 


ib.; blue, and burnt yellow, 222; white lead, verdigrease, 
and red lead, 223; purple, 224; factitions, 225. 

CoLumMELLa (small column), of the catapult, 326. 

CotumeEN (ridge-piece), 104. See Plate, 366. 

Cotumns, 88; origin of the three sorts of, 99; Corinthian, ib: 
104; Doric proportions, 107; Tuscan, 118; Ionic, 88. 78. 
83; their ornaments, how adapted to the sight, 94 

Comic Ports, Greek, 125. 162. 

Compass (amussium), 26. 

Compiovium, 172. 

Compression, in hydraulics, 255. 288. 317. 7. 112. 

ConcameErario (vaulting), 46. 153. 187. 

Cone, a dial, 287. 

ContsTERIUM, in the Palestra, 155. 

ConsistTENcy, 13. 

Consonances, natural, cvupwviai, 136. 

ConsTELLATIONS, northern, 278; southern, 281. 

Correr, Cyprian, 222. 

Corp, of the Spanish broom, 202. 

CoricEeum, in the Palestra, 155. 

Corintutan Vircrn, 101; columns, 99; ceci, 176; theatres, 140; 
vessel, 249; order, 99; plate relative to, 364, 

CornetAn Diviston, in the Faliscan territory, 244. 

CorniceEs, 115. 129. 204. 

Corona, 62. 94. et seq. 110. et seq. 115: 

Corus, wind, 26. 

Cos, isle and city, 283. 

Cossurius, a Roman architect, 196. et seq. 

Cortian Aups, 244. 

CounTERForRTs, anterides, 331. 188. 

CounTERPOISE, 290. 264. 

Country, house in the, 180, 181. 

Courtine, of beams, 118. 

Courts (caveedia), 172; distributed into five species, ib. 

Courts (atria), 174. 

Courts (cortes), in country houses, 181. 


880 INDEX. 


Cover, in the machine of Ctesibius, 306. 

Crane, revolving (carchesia), 304. 341. 

Crane, or grappling-hook, (grus) 334. 

Craruis, river, 242. 

Crete, isle of, 19. 69. 

Creusa, 100. 

Criopocue, a machine, xgi0dexn, 334. 

CrocopitEs, 236. 

Cresus, 192; house of, 59. 

Cross-Frront, 330. 

Cross-PiEcEs, 206. 296. 250. 333. 336. 

Crossine, of laths, 63. 

Crowntne members (fastigia), 94. 

Crypts, in temples, 179. 

Crestsius, 6. 196. 287. et seq. 318; his machine, 317. 
Cresipuon, of Gnosus, 82. 195. 197; machine of Ctesiphon, 305. 
Custr, the fourth part of the height of the body, 78. 
Cuirearia, 182. 

Cuma, 157; Cuman Mountains, 50. 

Curt, 130. 

Curitium, 239. 

CyspEtus, 240. 

Cycuri, in Thrace, 244. 

CyciapeEs, 215. 

Cypnus, a river of Cilicia, 240. 

Cymatium, 89. 108. 99. 

Cynosura, xvvocoven, 279. 

CyYRENE, 243. 

Cyzicen1, ceci, 177; triclinia, 185. 


D. 


Dams, 157. 
Daruntis, of Miletus, architect, 197. 
Darius, 192. 


Decasty os, 82; represented, 362. 


INDEX. 381 


Decorarion, in theatres, 143; on polished stucco, 208. 

Devence, machines for, 341. 

Derences (munitio), of a city, 21. 70. 341. 

Devrut, 195; Delphic Apollo, 75. 100. 

Demetrius PHaLerevs, 197. 

Demetrius Potiorceres, 342, 343. ° 

Democtes, 196. 

Democritus, of Abdera, 42. 192. 195. 260. 266, 282, et seq. 

Demoruitus, 196. 

DENTILLED, cornice, 13. 

Denrtits, 13. 106. 93. 

DiapveEs, 334, 335. ° 

Draconat, line, 102. 261. 173. 

Diacram, 134. 

Diacrams, 161. é 

Diane, a part of architecture, 15; on the construction of dials, 
268. 276. 284; of various dials and their inventors, 287. 

Diameter, 143. 322. 285. 

Diana, temples of, 13. 82. 101. 120. 195. 197. 305. 307; image of, 
in cedar, 69. 

Diapason, 136. 

Diarenre, 136. 

Diasrytos, 83. 85, 86; elevation of a diastyle tetrastylos temple, 
354.0 

Diatessaron, 136. 

AIA@EXIZ, arrangement, 11. 

Araerron, 186. 

Diatonic, modulation, 135. 

AIATONOI, or bond-stones, 58; representation of, 350. 

AlATAO®, 155. 

Divoron, ddag0v, a kind of brick, 44. 

Diesis, in music, 132. 135. 

DirzEUGMENON, degevyuévov, 136. 

Dicir, a measure, 80. 

Dimeyston (quantitas), 11. 

Diminvtion of columns, 86. 115. 


382 © INDEX. 


Aimo1pox ‘(two thirds), 80. 

Drnocrares, architect of Alexander the Great, 33. 

Diocnetus, of Rhodes, architect, 341, et seq. 

Diomepes, founder of Salpiz, 20. 

Dionysoporvus, 287. 

Diortra, 250. * 

AITIHXAIKH, in ships, 12. 

Diruixvs, the architect, 196. 

AIMAAZION, 80. 

Dirtintutvs (two bricks), 62. 

Dirreros, 82; dipteral arrangement, 196; plan of a dipteral 
temple, 360. 

Direction, by rule and square, 203. 

Discus, on a plane, 287. 

DisprapasOn, 136. 

DisorpErs, obstinate, in exposed situations, 24. 

Disrtuviatum, 172. 

Dissonant places, xatnxovvres, 146. 

Distanck, of planets from the sun, 264. 

Distrisution, 11. 13. 107. 56. 210. 

DistrisuTion and situation of buildings within the walls, 24. 

Divisions, of a city, 27. 

Dotruin, in hydraulics, 319. 

Dome (tholus), 211. See Plate, 368. 

Doors, of temples, 115; of two folds (bifora), 117. 

Doorways, of temples, 115. 174. 

Doric proportion and column, 99. 11.107. Plate relative to, 364. 

Doron, dagov, a palm, 44. 

Dorvs, king of Achaia and Peloponnesus, 99. 

Dove-tait, 119. 331; dove-tailed box, 326. 

DoweEts, dove-tailed, 119. 305. 314. 

Draveut, machines of, 299. 15, 16. 21. (See Macuinzs.) 

Dressine (antepagmentum), 115, et seq. 118. 

Drum-wHEEL, 302. 314. 322; toothed, 288. 312. 

Dynis, river, 236. 

Dyrruacuium, 241. 


INDEX. 883 


E. 


Earrn, circuit of, 27; proportion of, in various trees, 67; altars 
to the, 122; pressure of, in foundations, 188. 

Eaves, 70. 172. 118. 211. 334. 

"HXEIA, 6. 138. 

Ecurnvs, in capitals of columns, 108. 119. 

Economy, 13. 

*EKKAHSIAXTHPION, a theatre, 211. 

"EK@OPA, projection, 89. 170. 

Eeyrrt, 35, et seq. 114. 165. 215. 236. 241. 282. 

Eeyrrian (ci, 176, et seq.; priests, 229. 

Eicur parts, division into, 315. 

Evzoruesium, 155. 

Exsow (geniculus), in aqueducts, 254. 

ELrerHantis, 236. 

Exevsts, temple of Ceres at, 197. 

‘EAIKH, 279. 

Exvpuras, of Rhodes, 20. 

Emsates, module, 12. 108. 

EmBroIpERING, rooms for, 178. 

Emrepoctes, 228. 

"EMIIAEKTON, a method of building, 57; representation of, 354. 

Encarpi, 101. 

Enps of ropes (anse rudentis), 332. 

Encrpata, 318. éyyibara vel éyyuSara. 

Encines, distinguished from machines, 296; for drawing water, 
312. 314, 315; water engines, 319. 

Enconatos, a dial, 287. 

Enuarmonic modulation, 135. 

Ewntvs the poet, 266. 

EntasLaTures, 305. 

Enrasts, a swelling in the middle of columns, évracis, 87. 

Epacon, éraywv aptiuwy, 303. 


384° INDEX. 


Erneseum, 155. 

*EMEKTO®, 80. 

Epuesvs, 100. 195. 197. 217. 305. 307; law of the Ephesians on 
building, 293; mines in, 220. 

*empaopa, ladder of the Greeks, 334. 

Ericuarmus, 228. 

Ericurvs, 42. 162. 192. 

"EIAIMoIPos, 80. 

Ericrams, Greek, three, inscribed on fountains, 245, 246. 

Errmacuus, the Athenian architect, 342. 

*EMMIMIENTAMOIPOS, 80. 

Episcenium, 212. 

*ETMIEXIAEX, 332. 

Eristytium, 13. 81. 83. 108. 126. 128. 

"EINITIOIAES, sime, in the corone, 94. 

Errroxis, 326. 

*ETLITPITOS, 80. 

Erizycis, 329. 

EQuiLisraTion, 309. 

ErarostHENEs, of Cyrene, 9. 27, et seq. 265. et seq. 

Enisma&, anterides, 76 épeioua, 188. 

‘EPMHAONH, Constellation, 281. 

Eryturez, 100; Erythreean fields, 243. 

*Exxapa, basis of the balista, 331. 336. 

Evcrates, the comic poet, 162. 

Evp«moy, the astrologer, 283. 

Evpoxvus, 283. 287. 

Evrnranor, 196. 

Evrnrates, 235. 

Evririves, disciple of Anaxagoras, a dramatic philosopher, 227; 
his tomb, 244; extract from his Phaethon, 272. 

Evronotvs, 27. 

Evruvs, 25. 

Evstytos, 84. 

Evrueta, 308. 

Evancetus, 307. 


INDEX. 


Evaporation, 223. 
Exepra, 155. 176. 185. 210. 219. 


F. 


Fasenrtus, the scribe, 219. 
Facer, of walls, 44. 56. 
Facr-wauts, 57. 


385 


Facrnes (cruste), 58; of marble, 210; facings cut from walls, 206. 


Factitious colours, 224. 
Faternian Wine, 242. 
Faxisean Territory, ib. 
Fano, 70. 127. 

Fascia, 93, et seq.; in doors, 116. 


Fasticra, in buildings, 94. 151. 104. 119; in pavements, 201. 


Favnus, temples of, 81. 

Fer uine of timber, 65. 
FEMALE Joint, 290. 

Femur, in triglyphs, ungos, 109. 
FENcE-work, 112. 

Frerentium, 54. 

Fisura, 22. 

FiprenarTEs, stone quarries of the, 53. 
FiIuets, 90. 

Fittets of lime, 113. 

Fiiiine, of ditches, 336. 
FILuinc-1n, 58. 

Fir, 66; infernas and supernas, 71. 
Fire, discovery of, 37. 
Fitness, ordinatio, rags, 11. 
FriamInian Circus, 120. 287. 
FLint-sTOoNEs, quarries of, 53. 
Fioor, 339. 

Fioorine, 199, 200. 127. 
Fioors, 334. 

Fora, temples of, 12. 220. 


886 INDEX. 


Frowenrs, 102. 118. 211; see plate, 368; flowers of sulphur, 222. 
Fuvures, incolumns, 88. 107. 112. 99. 
Fuutines, 110. 
Fo.pinc-poors, 141. 116. 
Foor, 78. 
Fore-arm, the fourth part of the height of the body, 78. 
Fore-ri£ce (antefixa), 326. 
Fortuna Equestris, temple of, 83; temples to the three Fortunes, 
81. 
Forum, 126. 
Forum, of Casar, 83. 
FounpDATIOoN-wALt, in a harbour, 158. 
Founpations, 21. 88. 187. 131. 247. 250. 252. 
Four Foups, doors of, 117. 
Frames, or margins of pannels, 208. 210. 
Framine (coagmentatio), 68. 
(commissura), ib. 
(compactio), 338. 
(contignatio), 66. 104. 
France, 235. 
Friciparium, 155. 
Fuicrum (hypomochlium), 308. 
Funp1, a town of Campania, 242. 
Furnace, in baths, 152;: mouth, ib. 221. 
Fussirius, the first of the Latins who wrote on architecture, 196. 
Fusterna, upper part of the fir, 67. 


G. 


GataTia, 224. 
GatueEries, 127. 145. 
GancEs, 235. 

Gates, 72. 180. 184, 152. 
Gaut, 20. 38. 
GrometTry, 4. 

Gerusia, 59. 


INDEX. 887 


GuaptraTors, shows of, 126. 

Giass, 225. 

GNoMON, cxiabnpas, 26. 284. 

Gwosus, 19. 197. 

Gotp, method of detecting silver in, 264. 

GonarcuE, a dial, 287. 

Gortyna, 19. 

Granarigs, 179. 181. 

Grarrtine Hook, 334; machine, 335. 

GraveL, 231. 43. 

Greeks, buildings of the, 184 et seq.; winter apartments, 208; 
theatres, 145 et seq.; their ancestors, 259; comic poets, 
125. 

GupceEons, 299. 305. 

Gurt-rorgs, 6. 

Gutrsx, under triglyphs, their distribution, 109, 110. 

Gutter (alveus), in baths, 153. 

GuTTER-PLATES (deliquizx), 172. 

Guy, 301. 

Gymnasium, 155. 

GyNn«coniTIis, 184. 


H. 


Ha.r Bricks, 44. 

Haticarnassus, 59. 
HamaxopopEs, 338. 

Hanp-srikEs, 6. 

Hann te (ansa), in machines, 309. 
Harzours, structure of, 157. 
Harmony, 134. 167. 131. 

Harpers, cithareedi, 140. 

Hatcuet (ascia), for lime, 202. 
Hea.rtu, temple of, 13. 

Heatrny Situations, choice of, 16. 
Heaps or Stones (aggeres), in harbours, 157. 


388 INDEX. 


HeEAvy-Roorep TEMPLEs, 84. 

Hecesias, 248. 

HELEpotis, 342. 

Hetices (volutes), 103. 

Hettas, of Athens, the statuary, 76. 

HEtten, father of Dorus, 99. 

HemisPHEenre, 287. 153. 

Hemirrictypn, 110. 

Herrasotus, lake, 236. 

Heractitvus, of Ephesus, cxoreivis, 42. 227. 

Henrcutes, temples of, 12. 31. 58. 84. 

Hermocenrs, of Alabanda, an architect, 82. 85. 107. 195. 

Heropotus, 248. 

Herrvrian Harvsrices, 31. 

Hexacnorp, hydraulic, 319. 

HeExacons, in pavements, 200. 

Hexasty.e, 84; elevation of an hexastyle temple, with a systyle 
intercolumniation, 356, hexastyle with eustyle intercolum- 
niations, 358. 

Hrerarotis, 241. 

Hierro, 264. 

Hitocks, 39. 

HimeEra, river, 240. 

HINGE-sTYLEs, in doors, 116. 

Hirrarcuus, 283. 

Hrrrocrates, the physician, 8. 

Hirrorotamus, 236. 

Homer, 194. 

HomeromastTIx, ib. 

Homorona, 6. 

Honour anp Virtue, temples of, 82. 197. 

Hoops, iron, 325. 

Horrer, in water-mills, 314. 

Hospriratia, in Grecian houses, 185; in theatres, 144. 

Hostiuius, M. 20. 

Hovr-LinEs, projection of, 286. 


INDEX. 889 


Hovse or Romutus, 40. 

Hument, of the pronaos, 118. 

Hypravutic machines, 319. 

HyMertus, mount, 58. 

Hyraxturos (vads), 82; Hypethral walks, 149. 12.—Plan of ant 
Hypethral temple, 362. 

Hypanis, river, 215. 235. 242. 

Hypare, 136. 

Hyrerzo.zon, 136. 

Hyrrrruyrvum, 116. 

Hypocea, under-ground apartments, 187. 

Hyromocutium, 308. 

HyporracuHeE ion, 86. 94. 108. 119. 


IcHNEUMON, 236. 
Icunocrapny, 11. 

Ictrnus, architect, 195. 197. 
IprEa, ida, 11. 

Imp.iuvium, court, 175. 
Incertum Opus, a method of building, 56; representation of, 350. 
IncLiInaTIon, 188. 

Increase, of days, 284. 
Inpvex (bulla), in dials, 290. 
Inpia, 235. 

Inpico, 220. 

Inpbus, river, 235. 

Inxaip Doors (cerostrata), 117. 
InTERCOLUMNIATIONS, 83. 107. 
InTERSCALMIA, in ships, 12. 
INTERSECTION, uetoxn, 93. 
(decussatio), 26. 
InTERTIGNIUM, space, 106. 
ToLaus, 244. 





390 INDEX. 


Ion, whence Ionians, 100. 

Ionic proportion, Ionic work, 104. 106; plate relative to, 364. 
Iron cramps (anse), 57. 

instruments, 202. 217. 346. 

Isis, temple of, 31. 

Ismuc, town of, 24/7. 

Isopomum, work so called in walling, 57; representation of, 350. 
IstHMIAN games, 259. 

Iraty, 51. 126. 140; commendation of, 168. 

Ivy, 231. = 





Jack (choragium), 320. 

Jorners’ Work, 67. 112. 129. 171. 

Joints, masculine and feminine, 290. 

Joist (axis), 199. 

Joppa, 241. 

JouRNEYS, contrivance for measuring, 322. 

Juba, king, 24/7. 

JuLtan colony, of Fano, 127. 

basilica on the Aquiline, 127. 

Jutius, the god, temple of, 83. 

Juno, temples of, 13. 31. 99. 

JuritTER, temples of, 12. 31. 58. 81. 128. 196; altar of, 122; planet, 
271. 





K. 


KATAKEKAYMENOI, hills, in Mysia, 51. Catakecaumenitan wine, 242. 
KATHXOTNTES, 146. 

Keys, in water-engines, 320. 

Kine-rost, 104. See plate, 366. 

Kircuen, in country-houses, 181. 

KPIOAOKH, 334, 


KTKAIKH KINHEIZ, 296. 


INDEX, 891 


KrkAagTh, 308. 
KTNoxorTPA, 279. 


Laxsoratory, 217. 220. 

Lacrepemon, 58. 

Laconicum, in baths, 221. 153. 

Lacotomus, line, 286. 

Lacunar, a dial, 287. 

Lacunaria, 107. 

Lapperr, for scaling walls, called ériPabea, 335. 

Lanpscares, on walls, 210. 

Laopiceans, fields of the, 243. 

Laricnum, castle of, 70. 

Larus, crossing of, 63. 

Law, 7; Roman law on building, 62; law of the Ephesians, 293; 
law of the Athenians, on the maintenance of parents by chil- 
dren if instructed by them in the arts, 162. 

Layer, of rubbish, 199. 

Leap, red, 215. 223; white, 223. 

Leapinc-rore, 300, 301. 

Lesepos, 100. 

Letecs, 60. 100. 

Lemnos, 215. — 

Leocuares, the statuary, 59. 196. 

LeonipEs, 196; his precepts on the symmetries, ib. 

Lessos, isle of, 24. 242. 

Levet, 26. 

LevEt of water, 239. 143. 207. 

LeEvELLING, and the instruments used for that purpose, 250. 308. 

Lever, 308. 182; for pounding rubble, 200. 256. 

Lever (phalanx), 311. 

Lisrartes, 178; of Alexandria and Pergamos, 192. 

Licuanos, in music, 136. 

Licinivus, the mathematician, 212. 


392 INDEX: 


Lime, 48. 199. 202. 207. 210. 

Lives, from the points of sight and distance, 195. . 
LinteEt-sEams, 174. 

Liranis, a river of Cilicia, 241. 
AOrE!ON, in theatres, 146. 

AOTO® ‘OMTIKO®, 9. 

LoosE Grounp, in foundations, 89. 199. 
aorTron, cold bath, 155. 
Love-sicKNEss, 60. 

Lucania, 243. 

Lucretius, 266. 

Lypia, 211. 242. 

Lyncestis, fountain of, 244. 

Lysirrus the statuary, 76. 


M. 


Maceponia, 33. 194. 223. 244. 

Macuinery, 294. 

Macurnes, 145. 296; of draught, 299. 301, 302; the polyspas- 
ton, 303; Ctesiphon’s contrivance, 305; principles of me- 
chanics, 308 ; engines for raising water, 312. 314, 315; ma- 
chines of Ctesibius, 317 ; for measuring a journey, 322. 328 ; 
for war, 325. 340. 

Meonta, 242. 

Mac1, 227. 

Maenssia, 82. 195. 216. 247. 

Mate-sornt, 290. 

MaMERTINE WINE, 242. 

Manacts, circle, 286. 

Manucta, in the catapult, 326. 

Mars ce, on the preparation of, for plastering, 214. 

Marcettvs, portico of, 82. 

Marius, trophy of, 197. 

Mars, temples of, 12. 31. 59; planet, 270. 

MarseEIuues, 39, 44. 344. 


INDEX. 393 


Marsu-weeps, 158. 

Marrian aqueduct, 238. - 

Masinissa, 247. 

Maruemarics, 80. 133. 165. 286. 
Mavrusta, Mauritania, 236. 

Mausoteum, 60. 195. 

Mauvuso.us, 59, 60. ° 

Mazaca, a town of Cappadocia, 241. 
Mecuanics, 15. 287; principles of, 308. 
Meputu, 245. 

MEtamrus, 196. 245. 

ME as, 60; river, 243. 

MELITAN wine, 242. 

Metre, 100. 

ME Lo, the astrologer, 283. 

ME Los, isle of, 215. 

MEnestues, 82. 

Mencury, temples of, 31. 59; planet, 270. 
Menor, 236. 

mHPoy (femur), in triglyphs, 109. 
Mesauts, 185. 

Mess, in music, 136. 

MetaceEnes, son of Ctesiphon, 194. 197. 305. 
METAL-FOUNDER, 54. 

METELLUs, portico of, 82. 

METOXH, 93. 

Merors, 106, 109, 110. 

Merroporus, 248. 

Mivetus, 100. 197. 

Mitt, 182. 

Mittstong, 314. 

Mito, of Crotona, 260. 

Mrvz (in sieges), 344; mines of metals, 215. 
Minerva, temples of, 8. 12. 31. 120. 195; promontory, 157. 
Mirror, 205. 

MissiLes, 344, 345. 


394 INDEX. 


Miruripatic war, 148. 

Mopvutation, 149; in music, 136. 
Moputts, 11. 108. 149. 

MONAAEX, 79. 

Monorrerat temples, 119. 195. See Plate, 368. 
Mownorrictypu, 110. 

Monvments, 54. 59. 

Moon, temples of the, 12. 140. 

Morrice (carchesium), 326. 

MortisEep beams, 336. 

Mummivs, L. the overthrower of Corinth, 140. 
Morena, edileship of, 59. 

Musica proportion (canonica ratio), 133. 6. 
Motus, C. architect, 82. 197. 

Muvutt, 186. 

Motutus, 99. 104. 107. 118. 

Myacnus, the Phoczan statuary, 76. 

My asa, town of, 59. 

Myron, sculptor, 8. 76. 

MyTILENE, town of, 24. 

Myus, 100. 


Nats, bossed, 206. 

NAOZ, év magactast, Bl. 

Narrow pass, 27. 

Nations, southern, weak, but acute; northern, strong, but obtuse, 
168, et seq. 

Naves, of wheels, 322. 336. 

Naves, or hamaxopodes, 338. 

NEMEAN games, 259. 

Neptunus Pantonivus, temple of, 100. 

NETE, in music, 136. 

Nexaris, 196; his precepts on the symmetries, ib. 

NicHomacuus, painter, 76. 

NicER, river, 236. 


INDEX. 895 


Nix, 35. 114; source of, 236. 
NoNacriAn region, in Arcadia, 244. 
Noumisius, P. architect, 2. 
Nympuoporus, 196. 


0. 


Oaken piles, 157. 

"OxPA, 215. 

OctTaconaL tower, 25. 

OctrastyLos, 82. 84. 

Ocrocuorp, in hydraulics, 319. 

OcroGENARLE, pipes, 253. 

Ovevum, 148. 

(Ect, halls, 176; Grecian, 177. 185. 

(Ecr Cyzicent, 177. 

(Ecus, in Grecian houses, 184. 

‘o1az, a tiller, 309. 

O1L-cELLaR, 181. 

OLivE-woop, charred, advantage of, in walls, 22. 

Otymric games, 259, 

O.tymrius Juriter, 82. 197. 

‘onal, beds of beams, 106. 

Orenincs, for air, 205; or mouths of channels, 207, 315; of a 
furnace, 221. 

Optics, 4 

Orac es, on Socrates, 75; on colonies of the Greeks to be settled 
in Asia, 100. 

OrcuEstraA, 141. 143. 

Orvers, of architecture, 88. 99. 107. 118; representation of, 364. 
368. 

Ornaments, of columns, 104.191; of epistylia, 126. 143; of 
doors, 115. 

OrrimmMeEntT, 215. 

OnrsE1s, Nymrn, mother of Dorus, 100. 

Orrnocrarny, 11. 


396 INDEX. 


OPTTES, tortoises, 338. 
- Osrrum, purple, 224. 
Ovats; in pavement, 200. 
OvERHANGING, 158. 188. 


Pacers, one thousand, 323. 

PappLes, in water-mills, 314. 

Pxoxtvs, of Ephesus, architect, 197. 306. 
ParnteErs, celebrated, 76. 

Parntine in buildings, on the use of, 214. 
Paintine Rooms, 178. 

Patrastra, 155. 180. 

PaALuiENsEs, stone-quarries of the, 53, et seq. 
Patm, 44. 79. 

Pantonius Neptunus, temple of, 100. 
Parutaconta, fountain of, 245. 
ParextTonium, a town of Egypt, 240. 
PaRALLELs, in catapults, 325.—Parallel-line, 141. 286. 
PaRaMEsE, in music, 136. 

PaRanETE, in music, ib. 

Pararet, 127.152. 144. 334. 

MAPASTAX,; in temples, 184; in the catapult, 325. 
Parastatx, 325. 128. 

Panruypate, in music, 136. 

ParMENIo, 287. 

Paros, 307. 

Passace (xystus), of theatres, 150. 156. 
Passaces (fauces), to courts, 175. 
PatrocLes, 287. 

Pausanias, 5. 

PavemEnt, 199. 207. 

PeEakeED, tiles, 200. 

Perarts, soluble in acids, 245. 

Pepgsrat, 143. 


INDEX. 897 


PELECINON, a dial, 287. 

PELoPonnEsus, 4. 99. 

Prntaporon, 44; a kind of brick; of five palms; representation 
of, 350. 

MENTAMOIPOS, 80. 

Penraspastos, block of five pulleys, 301. 

PENTELIcUs, mount, 58. 

PEntTHovusE, 338. 

PrPHasMENvs, a Tyrian artificer, 333. 

Prercamus, 192. 

MIEPIAKTO!I, 144. 

PERICLEs, odeum of, 148. 

TIEPIAPOMIAEX, 186; Xysti, 156. 

TIEPIHXOTNTES, 146. 

PerimMetros, 141, 

Pexrirreros, 81. 119.—Plan of a peripteral temple, 358. 368. 

Peristytium, 184.155; Doric, 175; Rhodian, 184; in private 
houses, 175. 

MEPITPHTOY, sight-hole in the balista, 329. 12. 

MEPITPOXOS, 302. 

PERPENDICULAR, 94. 250. 57. 274. 

PERPENDICULAR-LINE, in dialling, 284. 

PERSIAN, portico, 5. 

PERsPEcTIVE, 195. 

Pesaro, 70. 

Puarax, of Ephesus, a statuary, 76. 

Puasis, 235. 

PHELLOs, in a dial, 290. 

Puiptas, the statuary, 76. 

PuiteEos, 195. 

Purtir, son of Amyntas, 333. 

Purtip, the astrologer, 283. 

Purto of Byzantium, 196, et seq. 

Puitotaus of Tarentum, 9. 

Puitus, 197. 

Puocea, 100. 


3898 , INDEX. 


Purycta, 242. 

Puryeians, 39. 

eeorrol, 135. 137. 

Puyrros, 196. 

Puysicians, 19. 

Puysics, 41. 

@rzxIoaoriA, 6. 

Puytevs, 195. 

Piacenza, 268. 

Picrenum, 53. 

Pictures, cut from walls, 58, 59. 

Pictures, large, 208. 210. 

Piers, in buildings, 188. 152, et seq. 126. 155 

Piers, in harbours, 158. 

Pitz, driving, 88. 301. 

Pitrine, 68. 

Pittars, for marking time, 289. 

Pittow, in a capital, 90; in the catapult, 326. 

Pitiowep (Ionic) capital, 90. 103. 13. 

Prin (fibula), 299. 301. 317. 

Prinacorueca, 176. 13. 

TUNAS, 320. 

Pinna, 239. 

Prinnine, of beams, 301. 

Pires (fistulz), in hydraulics, 238. 252. 172. 317. 

Pirrs (tubuli), 238. 253. 

Pirezvs, harbour, 195. 240. 

Pisistratus, 196. 

Piston-rops (ancones), 320. 

Pistons, 317. 

Pirane, a city of Asia, 44. 

Pivots (chodaces), 305. 

Prxopavurvus, called Evangelus for having discovered a quarry of 
marble, 307. 

Puaces, salubrious, choice of, 16; places for the common use of a 
city, 31. 


INDEX. 899 


PLAN of a city, should be polygonal, 21. 

Pianets, 268. 

PLANKING, 337. 

PLastTEr-work, 46. 156. 256, et seq. 

PLasTERING (tectorium opus), 43. 59. 153. 212; preparation of 
marble for, 214. 

Piasrerinc (albarium opus), 130. 153. 

Pato, 79. 192. 260, et seq. 

PLevriripgs, rules in hydraulics, 320. 

Purnrutum, a dial, 287. 

Puintus, 56. 83. 88; in the column, 89. 108. 84. 90. 118. 

Pneumatic machine, 296. 

Pneumarticos, 296.—Pneumatics, 287. 

Po, river, 69, 70. 236. 

Popium, ina theatre, 143; arounda temple, 89. 208. 

Pot, poles ina gnomon, 268. 

Pores, 166. 291. 

Po.isHiNnG, of pavements, 200. 

Potsuine, of plastering, 202. 205. 207. 215. 219. 

Poxuis, 196; his precepts on symmetry, ib. 

Porycres of Adramyttium, the painter, 76. 

Potycietus, the sculptor, ib. 

PoLyconat towers, 21. 

Potyipus, 196; of Thessaly, temp. Philip of Macedon, 333. 

PoLysPaston, a machine, 304. 

Pontine marshes, 20. 

Pontus, 38. 165. 215. 224. 235. 242. 

Pores, 231. 256. 

Porrnus, an Athenian architect, 196. 

PorTaste dials, 287. 

PorteEr’s rooms, 184. 

Portico, of Eumenes, 148; of Pompey, ib.; double portico, 155; 
portico on three sides, 184; portico behind the scenes, 148; 
in baths, 155. 157. 

Portucat, 38. 

Posiponivus, 248. 


400 INDEX. 


qoxoTes, dimension, 11. - 

Posticum, rear of the temple, 81. 88. 90. 

Posts, 187. 

Poruerets, 19. . 

PortsHERDs, coat of, 207. 

Pozzotana, 50, et seq. 

PRECINCTIONEs, passages, in theatres, 131. 

Praxite.es, 196. 

Press, 182. 311. 

Press-room, 181. 

Pressure, in mechanics, 309. 

Psieng, a city of Asia, 8 100. 195. 

PRINCIPLES, cro:xsi2, to be considered in the choice of situations, 
17. 42. 

Pxtson, on the, 130. 

Pretvs, daughters of, 245. 

ProcoxneEsian marble, 59. 307. 

Prosection, 89. 63; in machines, 346; of roofs, 104. 

Prosections (crepidines), 84. 115. 157. 

Prosectvre, 116. 

Promonrtogtés, 157. 

Promontory, of Minerva, ib. 

Pzoxaos, 78. 90. 107. 112. 118. 126. 

Proricnecm, 155. 

Proportion, 15. 78. 164. 

ProProrTIoNAL instrument, of Eratosthenes, 266. 

Props, 296. 

Proscenivm, 141. 

Proserrrxe, temple of, 12. 197. 

PzosLAMBANOMENXOs, in music, 135. 

PRosPANCLIMA, Tpos Tay xiua, a dial, 287. 

PRosTAHISTOROUMENA, Xp%s5 T& iztopovuera, a dial, 287. 

nporTaz, 184. 

Pzrostr1os, $1. 

ProtHyegipes (trusses), 116. 

Pzornrerm, 186. 











tl i i 


"- 7 o— 


INDEX. 401 


Psorreax wine, 242 

PsEcpisopoxucx, work 20 called is walling, 57: representation of, 
350. 

PsEcpoprrrenos, 81. 85. 

PSECDOrERIFTERat temple, 120; plans of, 356 30. 


Pcurrrcem, 2eyam, im a theatre, 141. 146. 
Pruice-stoxs, Pompeian, 50. 

Pcairses (templa), 104 See Plate, 366 

Prarie, 224; colours, how prepared, 225. 
Perro, 22 

Prcsostrios, 85, et seq; represented, 362 
Prrzacozas, of Samos, 124 223 260. 2&2 233 316 
Prruacozzays, discipline of the, 42 

Prraiax games, 259. 

Prrutcs, of Priene, architect, 8, et seq, 107. 


Q. 


QuaADEAGENszIa, pepes, 233. 
Qcapgayr. 91. 166. 

QrazTiE, 9 

Quicxstives, 217. 

Qursazia, pipes of five digits, 253. 
QuiseracENazia, pipes, ih 
Quizrsvs, temple of, $2. 220. 
Quives, a dial, 237. 


R. 
Rarrzss (canthern), 104 128 See Plate, 366 


Rarress (asseres). 104 See Phte, 36 
Rais m doors, 116 


402 INDEX. 


Rain water, 234. . 

Rammer, for loose earth, 199. 208. 

Ramparts, construction of, 23. 

Ravenna, 20. 68. 70. 

Recerrac.e of waters, 253. 

Recess of a wall, 118. 

Recession of objects in painting, 195. 

Recuamvus, 299. 

Rep lead, 215. 223. 

Reeps, indicate water, 231; Grecian reeds, 203. 

Rer ection from polished walls, 205. 

Reservorr, 253. 290. 317. 

Resonant places, 146. 

RericuLatep work, in walling, 56; represented, 350. 

REVERBERATION, 133. 

Rurve, 235. 

Ruopes, 61. 161. 224. 284. 341. 

Ruoptan portico, 184. 

_ Ruoprans, 223. 341, et seq.; their fleet, 61. 

Ruone, 235. 

Russ (asseres), 203. 

Ripce-riEck, columen, 104. 

Ricur angled triangle, 256; method of constructing, 262. 

Ricut line, 4. 

Rivers, the greatest, flow from the north, 235. 

Roaps leading to gates, 21. 

Rop, iron, (arcus ferreus), 153. 

Rotter, or cylinder, 306. 334. 

Rome, praise of, 62, et seq., 168. 

Romutus, house of, 40. 

Roors, 104. 118; parts of a roof, represented in section and eleva- 
tion, 366. 

Rooms, 202. 205. 207. 176. 182. 

Rorgs, in machinés of draught, 301. 

Rox, 108; by rule and square, 204. 

Rutes, in hydraulics, 320. 


INDEX. 


Saceine, 187. 

SaLapta, town of, 20. 
Sarmacis, fountain of, 59. 
ZYAMBTEH, 166. 343. 
Samos, 100. 195. 


408 


Sanp, 46. 48. 88. 203; strong, common, and red, 231; counter- 


poise of, 290. 264. 
SAND-coaT, in stucco, 204. 
Sanp-rit, 46. 50. 
Sanp-stone, 50. 53. 
Sapinea, 47. 

Sarpians, 59. 

Sarnacus, 196. 

Saturn, planet, 271. 
Satyrus, 195. 

SawIne into four quarters, 67. 
Scaz, 261. 267. 
ScaLE-BEAM, 309. 

Scatine machine, 334. 
ScaMiLxi (impares), 89. 149. 
Scansonia, 296. 

ScarneE, a dial, 287. 
SCARLET-DYE, 224. 

Scene. See THEATRE. 
Scene painting, 145. 
Scenocrapny, 11. 
ScuEMata, 28. 

Scnota, in a bath, 153. 
Scoras, 196. 287. 

Scorpion, a machine, 325. 296. 308. 6. 22. 
Scottra, in columns, 90. 110. 
Screw (cochlea), 180. 
Screw-rress, 182. 


4.04: INDEX. 


Screw-Pump (cochlea), 159. 

Scutrture, 8. 88; of the cymatium, 115. 

Scututa, sight-hole, 329. 

Sea, superior and inferior, 72. 

altar of the, 122. 

Srasons, changes of the, 283. 

SEMICANALICULI in triglyphs, 109. 

Semicircutar dial, 287. 

SEMIcYLINDER, 266. 

Semiramis, 241. 

SEMIMETOPA, 109. 

SemitTone, 135. 

SEPTENTRIO, 25. 

Septimius, P. 196. 

Serapis, temple of, 31. 

SEsquiaLTERuM, 80. 

SEstTerRtT1IuM, 80. 

Sertuine of timber, 199. 

Sewace, 7. 150. 

Sewers, 150. 

Suarr, of a column, 83; of the climacis in the balista, 330; in 
staircases, 262; of the water-screw, 316. 

Suarts (scapi), in machines, 305. 

SHEEPCOTEs, 182. 

SurE p (clypeus), in the Laconicum, 154. 

Siciticus, 326. 331. 

Sicity, 240. 242. 

SivE-PrEcEs, 337. 

S1pE-posts (parastate), 325. 

Si1cHT-HOLE, in the balista, 329. 

Siens, of the zodiac, sun’s course through, 276. 

SrLanion, 196. 

S1Lenus, 195. 

Siiver, method of detecting, when mixed with gold, 264. 

Sitver-mMines of Athens, 215. 

Sime (epitithides), in the corone, 94. 





INDEX. 405 


Sincrne birds, in hydraulics, 307. 

Srnk1nGs, in the soffit of the corona, 110. 

Sinope, 215. 

Srx, deemed a perfect number, 80. 

SKIA@HPAS, 26, 284. 

Siass, in pavement, 200. 

Smyrna, 194. 215; city of, 100. 148. 

Socket-pIEcEs, chelonia, 299. 

Socrates, 75. 77. 192. 

Sorrit, of the corona, 110. 

Soto, a town of Sicily, 241. 

Soracre, stone quarries of, 53. 

Sounp work (catenatio), 68. 

Space between two veins of earth, or timber, &c. 51. 54. 70. 

Spain, 38. 165. 215. 220. 

Sparta, 58. 

Srectracuta, in theatres, the places for the beholders, 141. 131. 

SPHEROIDAL surface, 251. 

Sprincs, 240; supply of water from, 252. 

Spur, 331. 

SevareE (ancones norme), prothyrides, 261; stone, 56. 112. 53; 
rule and square, 204; method of doubling the area of the 
square, 261. 

Square, quadratum, 107. 

Srapta, covered, 156. 

Srarrcasks, in a theatre, 141; method of setting out the steps, 262. 

Sratxs (caulicoli), in capitals, 102. 211. 

Sra.ks, of plants, represented on walls, 211. 

Sranp-prrEs (columnaria), in aqueducts, 254. 

Srars, rising and setting of, 283. 

Sratonia, prefecture of, 54. 

SratTuariés, distinguished, 76. 

SrrEetyarp (statera), 309. 333. 

Srers, 89. 131; lower, of staircases, 263. 

SreReosarTa, stylobata, 88. 

Stocks, brazen, 332. 


406 INDEX. 


STOIXEIA, 17. 

Strone-quaRRikEs, 53; discovered at Ephesus, 307. 
Storries, 290. 319. 

Srorx-rooms, apothece, 179. 

StTRaTEGEUM, 148. 

Straw, its use, 43. 337. 

Streets, 24. 

Strenern, in building, whence arising, 15. 
Srrine, 203. 

=1PIx, of the catapult, 325. 

Srruts (capreoli), 104. 129. See Plate, 366. 
Stucco, 202, 203. 206, 207. 214. 221. 
Sryztopata, 88. See Plate, 368. 

Styx, water of, 244. 

SupaToriEs, in baths, 153. 51. 

SuMMER-RooMs, 204. 210. 

Sun, temple of the, 12; course of the sun through the twelve signs, 


276. 
Sunivum, 120. 
Sunk, in the centre (alveolatus), 89. 
Susa, 246. 
SWELLING, in the middle of columns (entasis), 87. 89. 149. 
SYENE, 236. 
Symmetry, 11. 15. 78. 164. 81. 170. 
ZTMPQNIAI, consonances, 136. 
XTNHXOTNTEX, consonant places, 146. 
Syracuse, 264. 
Syria, 69. 235. 241. 243. 
SystyLos, 83. 85. 


Taste, in the balista, 330. 
Tasiinum, 174. 

Tena, in the epistylium, 108. 
Tanalis, 235. 

TarcuEsivs, architect, 107. 


INDEX. 407 


TaRrentum, 284. 

Tarsus, a city of Cilicia, 240. 247. 

Tarauinians, 54, 

TABI, fitness, 11. 

Trern, of the saw, 26; of sheers, 299; of the wall, 188; of the 
drum-wheel, 314; denticuli, 288. 

Trramonss, 186. 

TEAEIO%, 79. 

Temrenrine of lime, 202. 

Temrtes, 99, et seq. 115. 118. 8; of Apollo, 31. 82; at Miletus, 
197; of Diana, 83; of Asculapius, 13; of Augustus, 128 ; 
of Castor, in the Circus Flaminius, 120; of Ceres, 32. 84; 
of Proserpina at Eleusis, 197; of Coelus, 12; of Diana, 13. 
101; of Diana Aricina, 120; of Ephesus, 82. 195. 197. 305. 
307; of Magnesia, 82; of Faunus, 81; of Flora, 12. 220; 
of Fortune, 81; of Fortuna Equestris, 83; of Hercules, 12. 
31. 58. 84; of Honour and Virtue, 82. 197; of Jupiter, 12. 
31. 56. 81.128; Capitolinus, 84; Tonans, 12; Olympius at 
Athens, 82. 196, et seq.; Stator, 82; in the island of the 
Tiber, 81; of Isis and Serapis, 31; of the god Julius, 83; 
of Juno, 13. 31; at Argos, 99; at Samos, 195; of Bacchus, 
13. 31. 107. 148; Teos, 80. 195; of the Moon, 12. 140; of 
Mars, 12. 31; of Mercury, 31; of Minerva, 13. 31; at 
Athens, 120. 195; Priene, 8. 195; Sunium, 120; of Nep- 
tune Panionius, 100; of the Nymphs of the Fountains, 12 ; 
of Proserpine, 12; of Quirinus, 82; of Health, 13; of Se- 
rapis, 31; of the Sun, 12; Vejovis between two Groves, 120; 
of Venus, 12.31; in the forum of Cesar, 83; of Vulcan, 31; 
sacred to different gods, 12. 31, et seq.; five species of, 83, et 
seq. 122; on their design and symmetry, 78; their different 
aspects, 114; the proportions of their doors, 115 ; plans of, 
354. 356. 358. 360. 362. 

Tew (decussis), 80. 

Ten inches (dextans), 89. 

Trnons, 336. 

Tros, 84. 100. 195. 


Bp. 


408 INDEX. 


Terrip water, in baths, 152. 

TERrEBRA, 335. 

Terracina, 242, et seq. 

TxssERA, in pavement, 200. 

TrstupINATUM cayedium, 172: 

TrerTracuorp, in music, 136; in hydraulics, 319. 

Trrraporon, four palms, 44; representation of, 354. 

Trrrastytos, 172. 176; tetrastylum cavedium, 172; elevation 
of a diastyle tetrastylos temple, 354. 

Tuatamus, 184. 

Tuates, the Milesian, 42. 192. 227. 283. 


Tuasos, 307. 
Tueanum, 244. 


“Turatre, 131; vases used in, 138; its shape, 141; of its por- 


tico and other parts, 143; of the three sorts of scenes, and 

of the theatres of the Greeks, 145; of the entene and i: 

sages behind the scenes, 148. 
Tuesais, Plains of, 236. 
@EMATIZMOX%. See CIRCUMSTANCE. 
TuerocypEs, 196. 
Tueoporus, the Phocean, 195. 
TueEoposivs, 287. 
Turopotus, 215. 
Tueorurastus, 162. 248. 
TuEssaty, 244 
Tuotus, dome, 211. See Plate, 368. 
Tuow1s, in ships, 310. 
Turace, 244, 
TuREE-BRICK wall, triplinthius paries, 62. 
Turer Forrunss, 81. : 
THUNDERBOLTS, in sculpture, 109. 2 
©TPAPEION, 184. | 
TisER, river, 236. , 
island of the, 81. 236. x 
TisurTINE tiles, 200. | 
TiBuRTINE-way, 238; stone quarries, 53. 





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